Unpacking systemic racism. Resisting in solidarity.
SALAAM
Solidarity in action.
We are currently seeking BIPOC leaders in the San Diego- Tijuana- Kumeyaay borderland region. If you, or someone you know, would be interested in joining forces with us as a member of our Board of Directors please reach out to us by email.
Salaam is a non-religious nonprofit that has been helping predominantly white groups connect with their non-white neighbors in solidarity since 2019.
Our proven, three-step process is transformative:
- Awareness
- Connection
- Solidarity
Awareness
Before we can connect meaningfully with our BIPOC neighbors, our eyes must be opened to the realities of their lived experiences in contrast to our own. Salaam’s awareness program gives the floor to inspiring Kumeyaay, Latinx, and Black educators who will open our eyes and help bring us together around a common version of the history of our local borderland.
Connection
Equipped with an accurate version of our shared history, meaningful connection becomes a possibility. Our groundbreaking program, Real Friends, Real Community, brings an intentionally diverse community circle together for connection around our authentic personal stories. For many white participants, this will be their first time hearing about life as a marginalized person in a systemically racist society. Most are profoundly impacted and become passionate about decolonizing and dismantling systemic racism.
Solidarity
Aware and connected, our white participants are now ready to become productive allies with their BIPOC neighbors. In step 3, we pair participants with partner organizations to serve as committed volunteers in BIPOC-led initiatives throughout the region.
We CAN change our society. We can make it one that is equitable and inclusive for all. It will require an enduring commitment. We offer our programs to help energize and equip this transformation.
We’ll be launching our Awareness program in the San Diego- Tijuana- Kumeyaay borderland region in early 2023. We hope you will be a part of this groundbreaking social transformation and community building work. Sign up for our monthly newsletter and watch this space.
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“Salaam is the bridge to mutual understanding and respect through education and interaction. Sometimes one does not know where to begin when seeking a broader kinship with those of different backgrounds, Salaam provides the unique experience to close the gap, to bring people together.”Tama Becker-Varano
Founder and Director, Change Begins with ME -
“In a world full of division, ignorance, and hate, Salaam builds the bridge of peace with education and fellowship as we share our stories and work for the common good.”Joseph Dirbas
Former Rector, All Souls' Episcopal Church, San Diego