O.T.O. Education Committee Circulating Teaching Modules on Diversity

The Education Committee of O.T.O. USA has released a series of teaching modules created by the Diversity Task Force for use by Local Bodies. These include:

MoMod 01: Racial Injustice

In this foundational module, participants are encouraged to discuss ways to have hard conversations in light of fraternal bonds and explore the definitions of privilege and injustice. The resource video centers around the idea that it is important to first understand a problem before trying to fix it. Participants will be asked to discuss ways to reduce marginalization in their own spaces and in their communities. The module finishes with a challenge to each individual to measure the material in light of Liber Tzaddi, verse 22, 40-44. 

MoMod 02: Implicit Racial Bias

This module is centered around a 2019 documentary that explores the question, “can science alert us to bias?” In the video, different tests are administered and the results are examined. The module participants will begin by discussing the difference between unconscious bias and prejudice before being asked to take the “Symbolic Racism Scale” test and consider its effectiveness in determining racial bias. The module wraps up with discussion relating the material in light of Liber Oz. 

MoMod 03: 13th Amendment

Passed in January 1865 and ratified in December 1865, the 13th Amendment has become a source of controversy as some believe it provides a loophole for what it was originally designed to abolish: slavery. Participants are asked to consider the impact of the amendment and its effects on policy making and community. The discussion will include terms such as generational trauma and political advantage. Self-reflection is always a part of these modules and in this one the participants are asked to consider the amendment and its impacts in light of the U.S.G.L. Mission and Planning Statements. 

MoMod 04: Systemic Racism

This hard-hitting module starts with a conversation into the meanings of injustice and systemic racism. Explore the way history has been written and consider the existence of bias. One prompt suggests understanding what injustice truly is and finding one thing within an individual’s grasp to change and taking the action to change it. As a Thelemite, you will be challenged to reflect on a James Baldwin quote that specifically targets self-deception. 

MoMod 05: Antiracism

This module utilizes a podcast that explores the concept of antiracism and what it means to be an effective ally. Explore the concept of microaggressions and how they can creep into our conversations and interactions with others. The module participants, whether part of a larger group discussion or an individual self-study, will be asked to look at some of the terms we use in magick and esotericism and decide whether these terms should continue to be used or replaced. 

MoMod 06: Cognitive Roots of Bias

This module begins by encouraging participants to take the Harvard Implicit Bias test and discuss the possible assumptions we make about race and gender. The prompts encourage conversation surrounding “own race bias”, categorization, and tokenism. Explore how unconscious bias can form and the areas of our culture where it might be discovered. Lastly, reflect on the materials in light of Liber Librae.

Contact your local body leadership for more information about discussion groups or access to a module for self study.

Frater Lux Ad Mundi

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