When faced with racism, we need to address the systemic obstacles to equal opportunities and equal justice. Racism persists and its affects can be devastating. Where an individual lives, works and plays ultimately affects their ability to achieve healthy outcomes. If violence is a part of this image, in any way, it diminishes the quality of that outcome. Violence is a public health issue that has to be addressed. Trauma is at the forefront of racism and violence. Systemic biases affect each of us and prevent us from achieving our full potential as a culture and community. The epidemic of violence affects not only the individual victim of violence or perpetrator of violence but impacts the entire community. In this workshop the participant will explore racism, our history, culture, government lead policies and other factors beyond individual choice that have impacted racism and violence in our communities.