Restaurant-Bookstore Sponsors Monthly Discussion About Race

"How do you personally feel that race or white supremacy has survived U.S. history?" asked Pam Pinnock, kicking off a monthly discussion on race at Busboys and Poets on 14th Street NW. Whoa. Obviously, this is not your typical Sunday evening light chat.

For almost three years now, the restaurant-bookstore ("one of the only places in the city that's truly integrated," Pinnock said) has been hosting such talks. The events start with small groups tackling a question such as the one above. Then there is a film, an author, a lecture or a panel that speaks on race, followed by an open discussion.

"There are no right or wrong answers," said Pinnock, the director of marketing and events at Busboys, who started the talks. The only rule: "Treat everybody with dignity and respect," she said.

On a recent Sunday, David Roediger discussed his new book, "How Race Survived U.S. History: From the American Revolution to the Present." Although his insights were interesting as he went over the major points of his book, the really stimulating thought came in the small-group discussions. If you have limited time, come at the beginning so as not to miss that part. And sit with people you don't know. That's the whole point: to get a different perspective.

"I think about [race] a lot," said Reyhan Reid, a contractor in the District who often hosts talks on race with his friends. "I like that [Busboys and Poets] opens up the discussion."

Fahima Seck, who teaches a class on race, class and gender at Bowie State University, said she comes to all the discussions. "It gives everyone an opportunity to participate. No one's preaching at you, and it gives you an opportunity to give your perspectives," she said.

Everyone is welcome. Drop in for a bit. Sip cappuccino as you listen. Leave early if you like. About 25 people (half black, half white, most appearing to be younger than 40) attended the most recent discussion.

It was Angie Deane's first time there. She brought a unique perspective, having just moved from Chicago to Washington, which "seems to me to be so diverse," she said.

Busboys and Poets does not limit its consideration of race to black and white; the organizers recently hosted a series on Latin American relations.

Whoever you are and whatever your background, "the whole idea is creating a safe space to talk about race," Pinnock said.

This Sunday, the evening will include a screening of "Tulia, Texas," a documentary about a white undercover narcotics officer who accused 39 African Americans of selling drugs. (They later filed a lawsuit claiming that their arrests had been racially motivated and won a $6 million settlement.)

-- Moira E. McLaughlin

Where is it? 2021 14th St. NW, 4 to 6 p.m. the first Sunday of every month, in the back room past the restaurant area.

How much? Free.

If you have more than three hours: Continue your discussion over dinner. Entrees are $9.95-$22.95.