What Dentistry Teaches us About Curbing Racism | Monica Anderson | TEDxOshkosh
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ย. 2024
- Tooth decay is a disease that is preventable through early education before bad habits develop Likewise, racism should be seen not as an attitude, but as a disease that can, and should be addressed at an early age.
This talk discusses approaching racism from the perspective of disease prevention through early education, using what our world has learned about preventing dental disease as a guide.
Monica "mOe" Anderson, DDS, is a graduate of Baylor University, the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, and the American Dental Association’s Institute for Diversity in Leadership. A writer since childhood, she has authored eight published books and hundreds of articles on health and lifestyle. Her book “Success Is A Side Effect: Leadership, Relationships, and Selective Amnesia” has been called a “roadmap to self-improvement.”
She has launched numerous successful community initiatives, most recently the 501(c)(3) Drop The Drugs, Inc. While practicing dentistry full-time, raising a family, and hosting a Time Warner Cable television program in Texas, she wrote a weekly lifestyle column for a major daily newspaper for almost a decade. Dr. mOe has also made appearances on regional and national media outlets.
Dr. mOe is an ordained minister, licensed dentist, mother of two and grandmother living in Grand Prairie, Texas This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx
Amazing Amazing Amazing!!! This was one of the best talks I have seen in quite some time. Thank you for sharing and encouraging us.
Ty for watching and receiving my heartfelt message.
Oh my stars what a terrible experience to have had, and on your first day of placement too.
Once read that more dentists commit suicide than any other professionals. Perhaps if they changed their perspective of what they do that number would go down.
Such a powerful and timely talk, Monica! You are leading the way and blazing new paths!
Thank you so much!
It's fascinating how Monica draws a parallel between dental phobia and the fear of interacting with people from different racial or ethnic backgrounds. The way she connects these experiences highlights the universal nature of fear and prejudice that we need to address.
"The universal nature of fear and prejudice" is exactly the point I attempted to make. Thank you for commenting.
Lol this is a great way to introduce yourself Monica, very disarming.
Ty! Nice to virtually meet you Mary.
I love her perspective on dentistry and I can definitely understand the artistry part, after I got my teeth fixed I felt like a work of art 💁♀
Hi Jessie! That part. LOL! It is amazing to see the instantaneous personality shift when everything turns out as planned. Thx
I'd be willing to bet my _life_ on Bobby Earls mom having terrible teeth.
Bwahahahaha😅! I don't recall but I bet you're right. Thx for that chuckle!
Loved the message about daily mental hygiene, I know a few people who need to start practicing that.
Damn I was listening to this with such anxiety from the 2:20 mark expecting that kid to have some kind of horror show teeth... But then what actually happened is so much worse.
While I appreciate Monica's call for bystander intervention, I think it's easier said than done. It takes courage and a certain level of confidence to speak up in the face of discrimination.
Hi Lance, thx for commenting. I've found that most challenging circumstances are easier said than done. It takes the courage of our convictions to speak up when we see injustice. Each individual has to make their own choices and live with the consequences.
This talk is brilliant, it covers so much, all of it very accurate, thank you.
The call for a commitment to a racism-free environment everywhere is a powerful conclusion. It leaves us with a clear call to action.
great talk, Monica. very insightful!
Great information and very powerful! It was very eye-opening. Amazing job, Moe!
Thank you so much!
I am so shocked by the story around the 4 minutes mark like I just can't fathom that?
It was a pleasure growing up with you mam. I always looked up to you. Would love to talk to you sometime. I used to read your articles in the star telegram.
There are so many comparisons to be made in this analogy it's seriously amazing.
She makes some great points about equality language! I agree that it plays a huge part in the fiqht against discrimination
The preventative approach Monica proposes through early and ongoing unconscious bias training resonates strongly. Just as fluoride in water prevents tooth decay, education and awareness from an early age can prevent the spread of discrimination and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.
Agreed. Thank you!
The Baylor Bears story was a powerful example of overcoming initial biases through common ground. Great takeaway on finding connections with others.
Ty. It’s a learned skill but anyone can learn to build rapport through common experiences.
Thought provoking, and actionable-especially appreciate the light humor.
Ty for watching and noting the actionable points!
I agree completely.
yeah, I definitely appreciate when these talks are a bit lighter
Wow I'm actually reeling from the story about that kid during her work experience... I just can't fathom that that kind of prejudice still exists today.
It was a painful experience but it prepared me for the road ahead. Thx for commenting
The story about Bobby and that encounter with racism-heart-wrenching. It's a reality check that these issues are embedded everywhere, and can come to the surface anywhere - even the dentists office
Thank you for your comment!
Yup, what she says about bystander intervention is spot on. Especially when it's "oh I was just making a joke" -- no!! You're perpetuating a stereotype. Stop it.
Exactly. Saying nothing is passive endorsement. Ty!
Monica's analogy of mental hygiene is thought-provoking, but I'm not sure if it fully captures the complexities of addressing deep-rooted prejudices. It's not as simple as brushing our teeth regularly. Overcoming biases requires introspection, education, and ongoing effort
True change is never easy or simple. In the amount of time given, I shared strategies to begin the process which does indeed require ongoing commitment and education. Thank you for commenting.
I can't believe that moment she describes with Bobby Earl and I can't imagine the type of mental fortitude required to just keep going with good grace.
It was unbelievable to me, as well. I give credit to my home training and my Christian faith but it did shake me to the core.
While I understand Monica's focus on diversity in decision-making, I think it's essential to consider competence and qualifications alongside representation. Diversity is valuable, but it should go hand in hand with expertise to ensure effective decision-making.
I don't disagree with you. Diversity, competence, and qualifications are not mutually exclusive in hiring or in forming cross-cultural relationships. Thank you
I remember learning how to brush my teeth properly from a video we watched in grade school and I _still_ think of it pretty much everytime I brush my teeth - over 25 years later!!! Circles, scrubs then flicks. I wonder if that's how they still teach it?
You got it. Remember to brush for two minutes and practice your mental hygiene while you're at it. Ty!
For me personally I guess it's not so much a fear but it just feels super invasive having someone poke around in your mouth! That and the noise.
I think it's gotten a lot better though! Every time I go I walk away feeling like, oh that wasn't actually as bad as I was expecting
Just remember we are providing health care like all the invasive procedures in a medical office. The alternative is cavities and bad breath! 😂 Ty
Well, this was unexpected. Thanks Monica very cool talk.
Ty!!😊
While systemic changes are crucial, Monica's call for bystander intervention is equally important. It's not enough to be passively against racism; we must actively confront and challenge discriminatory behavior
I couldn't have said it better. Thank you for this comment.
I don't know... sometimes I neglect my dental hygiene because I'm just feeling down or overwhelmed and stop caring. Maybe it's a similar thing, those people in society who are like that maybe have just stopped caring about what a healthy society looks like
That is such a great observation. Thank you
People need to understand it's not the dentist they fear but facing the repercussions of their own inaction and having to sit with the pain of it.
Systemic changes alone won't solve the problem of racism. We need a new approach that focuses on changing behavior and building meaningful relationships.
Definitely! It's time for a new approach. Thank you
The comparison between fluoride preventing tooth decay and unconscious bias training preventing discrimination is a clever analogy. Prevention does work!
Yes, it does. I always prefer action to reaction. Ty
The way Monica cleared the room to address racism head-on is commendable, but I wonder if it would work in every situation. Sometimes, people might become defensive and resistant to change.
Yes, some people will always resist change whether it's technology or equity. I believe we must try or we will never know where we might have made an impact.
The comparison Monica makes between fluoride preventing tooth decay and education preventing discrimination is brilliant. It highlights the effectiveness of proactive measures. Let's invest in education and create a society where equality and respect are the norm, just like fluoride in water prevents tooth decay.
I concur!!!! Ty🎉
Okay, the comparison between fluoride and unconscious bias training is genius. Both prevent decay, whether it's in our teeth or our minds
Wow! Thank you so much.
As someone who avoids the dentist like the plague, I felt that dental fear hit close to home. But linking it to racism? Now that's a perspective I didn't see coming. Makes you think.
That's what makes these talks so interesting. As speakers, we want to make you think and look at things from another perspective. Thank you
That's my IDL classmate. Kudos to you Dr. Moe for speaking truth to power.
IDL was a springboard to this idea! Ty for listening and commenting!
Just like dental hygiene, practicing daily mental hygiene is essential. Reflecting on our biases and fears can help us overcome prejudice and embrace diversity.
Agreed. Thank you for listening and commenting. All the best!
I think Monica beautifully illustrates the deep-rooted fear associated with dentistry and how it parallels the fear and prejudice embedded in our society...
Thank you so much. Deep-rooted is the perfect description!
I have got a LOT to learn. Thanks for the honesty here
We all have a LOT to learn. Being open to new ideas and new ways of setting our mind is where we begin our personal growth. Ty!
Monica's comparison between fluoride and education is intriguing, but I'm not sure if it fully captures the nuances of combating discrimination. Education alone might not be enough to eradicate deeply rooted biases...
I agree education alone can not eradicate conscious or unconscious bias. Most of our country's issues are multifaceted and require a variety of approaches to change hearts and minds. My idea is one prong condensed into a few minutes. I pray the discussion and ideas continue.
I completely agree with Monica's perspective on the ineffectiveness of systemic changes alone in curbing racism. Her emphasis on building meaningful relationships, similar to regular dental visits, resonates deeply. It's through genuine connections and understanding that we can dismantle racial biases and promote harmony.
Wow! Well said. Thanks for watching and commenting.
The call for bystander intervention is so crucial. Encouraging other people to not be afraid of saying hey, don't let that decay spread - will hopefully lead to positive change.
Agreed. Racism is moral decay and we can prevent the spread. Ty
I think Monica's emphasis on unconscious bias training is valid, but I'm curious about its effectiveness in real-world situations. Training can raise awareness, but changing deeply ingrained biases is a more significant challenge. It requires continuous reinforcement and active self-reflection.
This has been done in several school systems though on a small scale. I read numerous studies in preparation for my talk. It's interesting how children can impact their parents' perspective just as parents can impact theirs. The reinforcement for positive change doesn't always come from home but it would be lovely if it did. Thank you for commenting.
I appreciate Monica's emphasis on daily mental hygiene and self-reflection as vital components in addressing biases. Just as we need to cleanse our minds from irrational fears, we should actively challenge and examine our own prejudices to foster a more inclusive mindset.
Exactly. An inclusive mindset should be the goal of every intellectual tourist. Thank you
I think Monicas personal encounter with racism in her dental practice sheds light on the contagious nature of racism... it's alarming to think how easily prejudices can be passed down and perpetuated through generations, just like dental phobia.
Thank you! It was indeed a light bulb moment when I made the connection of the disease-like nature of prejudice.
I definitely agree that prevention through early unconscious bias training could make a huge difference on a persons psyche. We shouldn't be waiting until our young people enter the workforce or college to educate them about bias in the first place. Unfortunately I think there are so many people having kids who don't even realize how bias they are, or how they're passing it on.
Thanks for the comment. There are always people who are numb or blind to the problems in our society. History has shown that enlightenment can be as contagious as ignorance if we have the courage to persist.
Monica's comparison of racism to tooth decay is thought-provoking. Like tooth decay, racism can spread and cause immense harm if left untreated. It's a stark reminder that we need to take proactive steps to prevent and eradicate racism, just as we prioritize dental hygiene to prevent dental issues.
Agreed. I love your use of the term "proactive steps" as opposed to reactive. It's not easy, but it's possible. Thank you
Good topic...
Thank you so much!
I've often thought a persons breath is so closely tied to their spirit, it literally comes from inside you. I know some people can't do anything about their bad breath but if your breath is bad because of your teeth, that's on you. Same as having shyt attitudes towards people just because of their skin.
That's quite an analogy 😂. Ty for your comment.
I appreciate the honesty about not being prepared for encountering racism during her early days as a dentist. Even when you've experienced it countless times in the real world, you just assume that when someone is coming to you for help, in a professional setting, they'll keep those prejudices in check. Unfortunately this is not the case and also not something they prepare you for during study
How true. Thank you for commenting.
The idea of a this environment everywhere is so lovely to think about, and 100% a goal worth striving for. Everyone should have the right and safety to go about their business.
Thanks for commenting.
When we have people from different backgrounds and perspectives at the table, we make better choices as a society. It's time to value and celebrate our differences.
Agreed. Ty!
"Colonism" is a new concept for me but I'm all about calling people on their unconscious rvcist tendencies. Nice to have a name for that kind of intervention!
Yes, bystander intervention takes courage but it can really impact behavior. Ty
Okay I dont like the story about Bobby Earl but man what a story in terms of linking the two things together. Definitely drove the message home.
It was hard experiencing it, as well. Ty for listening and commenting
Eat lunch with a stranger. Such a simple yet effective idea to foster understanding! I wish there was some kind of tinder but for interactions like that, just people trying to make friends or get to know people they would never otherwise speak with
What an amazing idea! You could take the lead on that app. I think it would be a huge success. Ty
Monica's closing statement about committing to a nonracist environment sounds idealistic... While it's a noble goal, achieving a completely nonracist society is a complex and ongoing process. It requires collective efforts and constant vigilance against discrimination.
I doubt we will ever achieve a completely nonracist society or crime free communities. I am inviting listeners to think of ways they can positively impact others and commit to being steadfast in their beliefs and behavior. Ty for commenting!
What a heart-breaking story... it's sad to think that children are being influenced in such terribIe ways by the people who are meant to care for them.
I agree. Ty for commenting.
Okay I'm hearing you Monica and when my children are of dentist-going age I'm going to remember this talk and try so very hard to play it cool so they don't inherit my attitude!
Roger that! It's the best approach for you and your children. Tqo-years old is a great time for their first friendly check up btw. Ty
The metaphor of rocking the status quo to extract the fear at the roots is powerful imagery. There is a huge need for change and starting with bold actions like this would be very beneficial.
Thank you. I remember the day that metaphor came to me as I was writing the talk and it felt like a home run in my spirit! I'm glad it resonated with you.
Part of why that story with Bobby Earl is so messed up is because it sounds like she was getting somewhere in terms of building up his trust, making him smile a little and then... that happened.
Yes, it was quite a setback. I struggled to not let his mother's comment deter me from helping Bobby
Ty
Racism isn't as simple of an issue as tooth decay though! Like yes there are similarities and I understand how someone in her position would have that perspective but combatting racism isn't as easy as remembering to brush and floss.
No it isn't and my goal.was to offer suggestions of things we can do individually that may be overlooked. This is a huge problem globally and it will take many strategies to solve it. Ty
Monica's emphasis on the power of diversity in decision-making is spot on. Inclusivity and diversity go hand in hand with progress and positive change, so by embracing diverse opinions and perspectives, we can make better choices as a society.
The power of diversity! Well said. Thank you!
Never thought about things in this way...
I love the analogy, kids take on so much more than we think it's no wonder they become indoctrinated so quickly.
Agreed!
The statistic about how many of us don't have a friends of another race was a bit shocking. How insular must your life be?
Thanks for watching and commenting. Sometimes it's geography and many communities and areas are not as diverse as metropolitan areas. I experienced that while living in MN years ago. In other cases, it's easy and comfortable to stay within a limited circle. My hope is that people will see this and recognize the benefits of actively pursuing cross-cultural relationships.
This talk is a great reminder that healing begins when each of us takes responsibility and actively contributes to a more just and inclusive society.
Well said. Thank you so much!!
THANKS FOR SHARING THIS IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT RACISM WE NEED TO TEACH ALL PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT CULTURES AND TRUST OUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH ALL CULTURES....
Ty for watching and commenting!
It's so easy to forget that different people have been brought up under entirely different circumstances (and prejudices) and some of the stuff we take for granted - like learning the correct way to brush your teeth and treat people - was never afforded to others
Absolutely. Understanding that part helps us have a little more patience with people who are not like us.
Early unconscious bias training for our youth is like giving them a vaccine against discrimination. Brilliant and necessary.
Thank you so much for your comment. I love your analogy.
Early education on biases should be mandatory, great points!
Agreed. Thank you so much!
Treating racism like a preventable disease is pretty niche lol but a very impactful perspective.
Ty it is truly a matter of mindset and finding new ways to view old problems.
I never thought dentistry and racism would be in the same sentence, but this presentation made it work. Big ups to the speaker for connecting the dots.
Ty Taylor!
I am all for "call an ism what it ism" just as I'm all for telling people they need some gum. How else are they going to know they've got a stink on them?
LOL!! Honesty is a good policy.
Her prescription for early unconscious bias training is a very good practical solution. We need to equip our youth with the tools to combat discrimination
Yes, we do. Thx
What she says around the 10:55 mark is so important, especially when people are making "jokes" they need to be called out
Yes, we are so hesitant to "call an -ism what it -ism" but that is a tacit endorsement. If we can't change their minds, we can change their behavior around us.
The call for early and ongoing unconscious bias training is spot on. Prevention is key here - for both issues!
Agreed. Ty so much.
This is a very well thought out analogy, I think it applies perfectly.
Thank you!
So much of this is actually like a perfect analogy for racism - there are so many parallels here and the way racism in general can be compared to the way a tooth roots, internally from an issue that is deep in the roots and spreads if left untreated... I'm into it Monica, well done.
You really listened!! I appreciate the comment and encouragement. Thank you!
I never thought about the connection between dental fear and the fear of people from different races or ethnicities until now. Honestly it seems like a weird parallel to make, one that you wouldn't unless you had experienced both enough times to identify that it was the same feeling, caused by the same thing. I feel so bad for Monica that she has to experience that feeling so often in her life but it's also really impressive that she has the resilience to not only work through it but advocate for awareness and change around both issues.
Thank you. It's certainly not a daily experience but I have been subjected to bias more times than I can count. Still, most of us have been subjected to some form of bias. We always have a choice in how we respond. This is mine. I appreciate your comment!
This has left me with some mixed feelings... I appreciate her passion and commitment but some of the solutions she suggests seem oversimplified
That's fair and understandable. However, my goal was to suggest things we can do as individuals to improve our awareness and connectivity with others. It is not a problem that can be solved easily or by a few people. The Civil Rights and Women's movements took time and commitment from a lot of brave, determined individuals. Ty for watching and commenting.
I had a big laugh when Monica asked if she looked scary to me. Had I known she's a dentist the answer would have been a big yes!!
Well I'm glad you didn't know my profession and I'm happy you had a big laugh. thank you!
Wow okay I can't say I've ever thought about dentistry and racism in the same instance but this talk really nails it with the analogies.
Ty so much!
My kids don't fear dentist. They come from a generation of painless,quiet, cartoon, colorful, smiling, bright, office, and personnel. I grew up in offices that were cold, all white, everyone wore masks all the time, nobody smiled,
Nor should they. The dentist is your friend!! Sounds like you've done some great parenting. Thx for watching and commenting.
Just like toddlers who fear nothing, we can overcome dental phobia. It's all about changing our mindset and understanding the importance of oral health.
As someone who has dental anxiety, I can relate to the fear mentioned. It's interesting how the fear of the dentist can be connected to broader societal issues though, thanks for making me think!
Thx for listening with an open mind. Happy New Year!
Love that she including discussions about her own families understanding of fairness - made it all the more relatable
Thank you. It all starts at home.
yes! thank you! we can easily take a page from this book and figure out better standards to hold ourselves too, especially if we are working for and to assist lots of different people
Thank you, Casey. That's the key. What can we do to hold ourselves to better standards? Well said.
She is such a lovely speaker, and love how she drew us into the much bigger topic.
Thank you for these kind words!
No room for racism
Agreed. Working together is the only way we will solve the real issues plaguing us globally. Ty
The reference to the economic impact of discrimination is a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of racism. It's not just a social issue; it's an economic one too.
Thank you. I believe that is the factor most government officials and schools will grasp when presented with ideas like this one.
This is a fresh perspective... It makes me feel almost hopeful to think of racism as something that can be treated, same as tooth decay.
I love your comment. We have reason to be hopeful
There are a LOT of good people in the world. Ty
I love her vibe so much, she seems so calm and wise. Also mentally checking the last time I went to the dentist... eep.
Ha ha. Use those benefits. It's prevention at its finest. Ty so much!
I love the concept of daily mental hygiene! Checking our biases and irrational fears, especially when they're based on appearance or accents is a great step towards cleansing our mind from discriminatory thoughts and actually embracing empathy and acceptance.
Precisely. You summed it up well. Thank you!
I'm one of the 60% of people who don't enjoy close encounters with my dentist.
LOL! That's fair. Here's hoping for great oral health for you and that those visits are limited to twice-a-year A+ check ups.
The metaphor of rocking the status quo to extract fear is frikkin poetry.
I worked on that line for days until it felt just right. Thank you so much!