Tarana Burke and Dr. Brené Brown bring together a dynamic group of Black writers organisers
artists academics and cultural figures to discuss the topics the two have dedicated their
lives to understanding and teaching: vulnerability and shame resilience. Contributions by
Kiese Laymon Imani Perry Laverne Cox Jason Reynolds Austin Channing Brown and more. It
started as a text between two friends. Tarana Burke founder of the 'me too.' Movement texted
researcher and writer Brené Brown to see if she was free to jump on a call. Brené assumed that
Tarana wanted to talk about wallpaper. They had been trading home decorating inspiration boards
in their last text conversation so Brené started scrolling to find her latest Pinterest
pictures when the phone rang. But it was immediately clear to Brené that the conversation
wasn't going to be about wallpaper. Tarana's hello was serious and she hesitated for a bit
before saying "Brené you know your work affected me so deeply but as a Black woman I've
sometimes had to feel like I have to contort myself to fit into some of your words. The core of
it rings so true for me but the application has been harder." Brené replied "I'm so glad
we're talking about this. It makes sense to me. Especially in terms of vulnerability. How do
you take the armour off in a country where you're not physically or emotionally safe?" Long
pause. "That's why I'm calling " said Tarana. "What do you think about working together on a
book about the Black experience with vulnerability and shame resilience?" There was no
hesitation. Burke and Brown are the perfect pair to usher in this stark potent collection of
essays on Black shame and healing. Along with the anthology contributors they create a space
to recognise and process the trauma of white supremacy a space to be vulnerable and affirm the
fullness of Black love and Black life.
