Not Blaming. Not Shaming. Naming. A Conversation with Lexi Lang
Courageous Conversations Study Guide
Episode Overview
In this episode, co-hosts Ray Jarrett and Gary Kendall sit down with Lexi Lang—missiologist, church planter, and Unite KC leader—to discuss Kansas City’s Dividing Lines Tour. The conversation explores the legacy of racially restrictive covenants, the ongoing impact of redlining, and how knowing our city’s history is essential to loving our neighbors well. Lexi shares her personal experience discovering a 1920 deed for her own home and reflects on the importance of “naming” history without blaming or shaming, but with honesty and hope for healing.
Key Themes & Quotes
Naming, Not Blaming or Shaming:
“I’m not blaming, I’m not shaming, but I am naming.” (Lexi Lang, 5:14)History in Our Neighborhoods:
“All of our neighborhoods have histories. Do we know those histories?” (Lexi Lang)The Power of the Dividing Lines Tour:
“It was one of the most impactful things I’ve done in years.” (Gary Kendall)Systemic Racism and Healing:
“Some of the things, just the way the systems are set up, are still in place today… What can I do today to advocate for something better?” (Gary Kendall)Relationship and Listening:
“We should be doing this together, exploring together, listening to each other’s voices in the process.” (Ray Jarrett, 10:19)
Discussion Questions
1. Personal Connection:
What surprised you most about the history of Kansas City’s neighborhoods as discussed in this episode?
Have you ever discovered something about your own neighborhood’s history that changed your perspective?
2. Naming Without Blaming:
Lexi emphasizes the importance of “naming” history without blaming or shaming. Why is this distinction important?
How can we have honest conversations about difficult histories in our communities?
3. Systemic Issues:
The episode discusses how some systems and inequities persist today. What examples can you think of in your own context?
What steps can individuals or groups take to address these ongoing issues?
4. Taking Action:
After learning about the Dividing Lines Tour, what is one action you feel inspired to take in your own neighborhood or community?
How can you encourage others to join you in learning and acting for justice?
5. Faith and Neighboring:
How does your faith or personal values inform the way you approach conversations about race, history, and justice?
What does it mean to “love your neighbor” in light of the history discussed in this episode?
Activities & Next Steps
Take the Dividing Lines Tour:
Download the VoiceMap app and search for the Dividing Lines Tour, or visit the Kansas City Public Library website for a virtual experience.Host a Conversation:
Invite friends, neighbors, or your faith community to listen to this episode and discuss the questions above.Explore Your Neighborhood’s History:
Research the history of your own neighborhood. Are there stories or documents (like old deeds or maps) that reveal more about its past?Reflect and Share:
Write a reflection or share a story about what you learned from this episode. Consider posting on social media or sharing with Unite KC.
Additional Resources
About the Guest
Lexi Lang is a missiologist, author, church planter, and director of church planting for the Evangelical Covenant Church. She is the founder of Engage Church in Kansas City and serves on the Unite KC leadership team.
