Ryan Virden presents Breaking the Privilege Frame

Wednesday, July 22, 7:00 PM
In-Store Event - Registration Required

Breaking the Privilege Frame is a bold, unflinching exploration of race, whiteness, and power—written specifically for white people who want to move beyond performative allyship. Drawing on history, social analysis, and personal storytelling, Ryan Virden confronts the limits of the “white privilege” framework and introduces a more durable strategy rooted in mutual interest and relationship. With humor, clarity, and tough love, the book exposes how racism harms everyone—and offers practical guidance for staying engaged, accountable, and active in the long work of dismantling white supremacy.

Ryan Virden is an author, educator, and founder of Lir Cultural Coaching — a firm helping organizations from various sectors strengthen leadership, resolve conflict, and create cultures of belonging. He is the author of Breaking the Privilege Frame, a new book that explores race, privilege, and the historical forces that shape them. Virden’s writing has appeared in Twin Cities Daily Planet and The Good Men Project, and his work has been featured by Minnesota Public Radio. He holds advanced degrees in Liberal Studies and Educational Leadership and is currently pursuing a third in Human Resource Law. To learn more about Ryan Virden, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-virden/.

Mercedes Yarbrough is a community leader, educator, and creative force rooted in the historic Rondo neighborhood of St. Paul. With over a decade in public education, specializing in special education and behavior. She is known as #YoKidzFavoriteTeacher for making learning fun, culturally affirming, and engaging through media, movement, and the arts.

She is the Community Engagement Director at 825 ARTS, founder of RONDO Double Dutch, and a passionate advocate for Black history, youth empowerment, and community healing. Mizz Mercedez also co-hosts the fun and uplifting FUN Girlz FriYay Radio Show on WFNU 94.1fm, where laughter, real talk, and joy set the tone every Friday. Above all, she believes positivity is her superpower and that community is built through love, creativity, and connection.

About Events at M&Q:

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Q: Do I need to register?

A: Please do if at all possible! Use the registration button above. Registering ahead of time helps us with scheduling, book ordering, and other decisions that are made several weeks prior to the event. The more info we have ahead of time, the better.

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If you are unable to sign up online, please call or visit the bookstore and register with a bookseller.

Walk-ins are always welcome, but seating decisions are made based on registered attendance and seating priority is given to registered attendees first.

Q: Are in store events free?

A: Yes, Magers & Quinn events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

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