Resisting Oppression by Building Trust and Connection with Amber Banks

Dr. Amber Banks shares her personal journey into activism and social justice work. She speaks on the complexities of trust, how personal and cultural experiences shape trust, and the intersection of trust with race and power. Dr. Banks discusses the importance of creating spaces where individuals can feel seen and heard and stresses the critical nature of repair in the trust-building process. Her storytelling also touches on the necessity of rest and self-care in sustaining activism and promoting resilience against systemic oppression.

Dr. Amber Banks is the inagural Vice President, Programs at Decolonizing Wealth Project. She is honored to lead DWP’s programs and support the direction of Liberated Capital’s funds. Dr. Banks is also the Founder & CEO of the Center for Trust and Transformation (CTT). CTT offers coaching, training, facilitation, and advising to social sector organizations focused on trust, healing, repair, and racial justice. Dr. Banks started her career as a Special Education teacher and is a seasoned social sector leader with over two decades of experience as an educator, researcher, coach, facilitator, advisor, grant maker, entrepreneur, and organizer.

What you'll learn in this episode:

01:13 Dr. Amber Banks' Journey into Activism

06:06 The Complexities of Trust

08:39 Trust in Professional and Educational Contexts

12:11 Cultural Nuances in Trust

21:04 Developing Trust in Oppressive Systems

29:04 Creating Spaces for Trust and Connection

34:44 Building Trust Between Police and Communities

36:32 The Importance of Rest in Social Justice Work

37:27 Healing and Boundaries

40:43 The Role of Community in Personal Wellbeing

45:59 Navigating Conflict in Beloved Communities