You Are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame Resilience and the Black Experience: An anthology

Tarana Burke and Dr. Brené Brown team up with a diverse group of Black writers, organizers, artists, academics, and cultural figures to explore the themes of vulnerability and shame resilience. The project began as a text exchange between Burke and Brown, and it evolved into a book that aims to recognize and heal the trauma of white supremacy while celebrating Black love and life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2021
Publisher: Ebury Publishing

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Introduction:
Tarana Burke, the founder of the "me too." Movement, and Dr. Brené Brown, a renowned researcher and writer, come together in a powerful collaboration to explore the profound themes of vulnerability and shame resilience. This captivating anthology brings together a diverse group of Black writers, organizers, artists, academics, and cultural figures who have dedicated their lives to understanding and teaching these critical aspects of human experience.
Contributions by Kiese Laymon, Imani Perry, Laverne Cox, Jason Reynolds, Austin Channing Brown, and More:
The anthology features insightful contributions from a range of talented writers, including Kiese Laymon, Imani Perry, Laverne Cox, Jason Reynolds, Austin Channing Brown, and many others. Each essay offers a unique perspective on the complexities of Black shame and healing, providing a deep understanding of the experiences and struggles of Black individuals.
The Origins of the Collaboration:
The idea for this collaboration began as a text exchange between Tarana Burke and Brené Brown. Burke, inspired by Brown's work, reached out to her to discuss the impact of her words on Black women. They recognized the need for a more comprehensive exploration of vulnerability and shame resilience within the Black community.
The Power of Vulnerability:
In their conversation, Burke and Brown delved into the challenges of vulnerability in a society that often perpetuates stereotypes and biases. They discussed the importance of taking off the armor and embracing authenticity, even in the face of adversity. Brené emphasized the need to create safe spaces where individuals can share their experiences without fear of judgment or rejection.
Shame Resilience:
The anthology also explores the concept of shame resilience, which is the ability to acknowledge and process the trauma of whiteness while still maintaining a sense of self-worth and pride. Brené and Tarana discussed the strategies that Black individuals have developed to cope with the pain and trauma caused by systemic racism and discrimination.
Conclusion:
Tarana Burke and Dr. Brené Brown's collaboration on this anthology is a testament to their commitment to promoting empathy, understanding, and healing within the Black community. Through their powerful words and insights, they have created a space where individuals can recognize and process the trauma of whiteness, while also building resilience and fostering a sense of pride.
This anthology is a must-read for anyone who seeks to deepen their understanding of the Black experience and contribute to the ongoing conversation about diversity, equity, and social justice. By sharing these stories and experiences, we can work towards a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 135 x 216 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785043826