That's right, sit there and say not a word because no amount of reading/stats/black friends will make you more of an expert on the what it's like to be a POC than an actual POC.
If you want to listen more closely, feel free to invest in a good pair of headphones.
Or maybe a seashell.
Hell, go old school and use the ole tin can and rope technique. Whatever works best for you.
Next, stop what you're doing and really take in what you just heard. Really meditate on it.
And if you MUST say anything at all (most times a simple "OK" will do) try one of the following statements:
"Wow, I never knew about the things you experience as a person of color."
"Don't worry, I'll never be pompous enough to tell you how you should feel about racism."
"I really appreciate you taking the time to share this with me since it's not your job to educate us all on racism."
"It was hard for me to hear what you're saying through my wall of privilege, let me work on tearing it down and get back to you with my understanding."
Then, go forth and spread your newfound awareness to others so we don't have to keep repeating ourselves.
One more time for those in the cheap seats: listen, know that a response is not required, and open your mind to the information being presented to you, and maybe just maybe you'll learn something.
