“Eyes to See”: Anti-Racism Examen

Description of our collaboration proposal

The Examination of Consciousness — or Examen — is among the anchors of the spiritual life for Jesuits and all people who find a path to God through Ignatian spirituality. It is a reflective practice for helping us to make choices and act in ways that better the world. This Anti-Racism Examen further focuses on matters of race and racism that are specific to those of us at Jesuit colleges and universities. 

Eyes to see is organized into three parts:

Part I: Composition of Place Video

This video sets a tone of candor for the group’s reflection and discussion. Through the voices of colleagues, trustees and students across the AJCU network, it brings the racial reality of Jesuit colleges and universities into view. 

Part II: Guided Examen

The Anti-Racism Examen may be done in one, two or three sessions. A Leader’s Guide (in PDF format) provides those who lead the experience with a structure that can be adapted according to the needs of the group. Leaders may also use the Eyes to See Supplemental Materials page for links to videos, articles and music tracks that may help bring the Examen experience to life.

Part III: Resources for discussion and planning

The third part of the Examen consists of two documents that may be used for ongoing discussion and planning:

- The AJCU Racial Justice Resource Page is an online repository featuring successful initiatives in anti-racism education at Jesuit colleges and universities.

- Ideas for an Anti-Racist Future consists of recommendations from colleagues across the AJCU network for programs and initiatives that could be explored in the future.

Needs, support or request

The practice of Eyes to see is as applicable to colleges and universities as it is to individuals. Read all the information on the AJCU website.

The Anti-Racism Examen can be used in groups of any size with senior leadership teams, boards of trustees, academic and operational departments, and others who share common work at Jesuit colleges and universities. It is rooted more in questions than answers, and it links individual reflection to the path of institutional growth.