In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes Yavilah McCoy, a leader in equity strategies and organizational consulting, who shares her experience growing up as an unapologetically Black and Jewish woman. The conversation dives deep into racial and religious identity, intersectionality, and the challenges faced by Jews of color. Drawing on personal stories and insights, Yavilah McCoy discusses the importance of liberatory practice, collective care, and embracing the fullness of our identities within and beyond Jewish communities.
Topics Covered
The intersection of racial, religious, and cultural identities
Myths and assumptions about Jews and Jewish identity
White supremacy and its impact on Jewish communities
Personal stories of growing up Black and Jewish in Brooklyn
Educational experiences and advocating for inclusion
Liberatory practice and resilience in marginalized spaces
The importance of “dimension” and intersectionality
Collective and self-care in activism
Creating inclusive communities within and across identities
Key Takeaways
Race is a social construct and should not define Jewish identity or humanity.
Jews come from diverse backgrounds—racial, geographic, cultural, and economic.
Intersectionality is a source of strength, not dilution, and allows one to show up authentically.
Liberatory practice and resilience are essential to navigating oppressive systems.
Collective care and self-care are vital, especially for Jews of color.
Listening to and sharing the full story of our humanity is necessary for true equity.
Creating dimension in identity helps avoid the erasure and marginalization caused by binaries.
It’s not necessary to always be at the frontlines; activism should be a choice, not an obligation.
Best Quotes
“Mama Maya Angelou taught us that we often delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but we rarely admit the changes that it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”
“If I were to snap my fingers and bring every Jew that exists across the globe into this room with us right now, we would look more like the United Nations than the United Nations itself.”
“Race itself is a construction. Race does not describe our humanity in any way that's truly significant, except that race has been a tool of oppression…”
“It is only in oppression that we have to live in binaries. If we look at any ism that's out there, you're going to find folks trying to tell you you're either or instead of this plus both and right.”
“Just because you are living from a space of an intersectional identity does not mean you have to be the one to pick up the banner and be at the front. Right now, mostly I would say what's important is self care and collective care.”
Resources List
dimensionsedc.com
#BlackJewish
#Intersectionality
#LiberatoryPractice
#Equity
#CollectiveCare
#JewsofColor
#CulturalDiversity
#MESHpodcast
If you want to learn more about the guest or explore resources mentioned, be sure to check out Dimensions Consulting online and share this episode with those seeking thoughtful, inclusive conversations about identity and justice.