Cultural Diversity

– the challenge and the gift 

Many organizations seek an introductory justice training experience that encompasses more than one form of oppression. While training on a specific oppression (racism, sexism, heterosexism, etc.) is necessary, a broader initial approach is often prudent. This broad view workshop presents a conceptual framework for the historical and contemporary context of many forms of oppression and encourages an understanding of their interconnections.

Objectives

  • To examine the roots of prejudice
  • To provide a framework and common language for authentic dialogue about prejudice and oppression and to create an environment that encourages such dialogue
  • To clarify the historical, political and social context for oppression
  • To illustrate the interconnections of racism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, ageism, anti-Semitism, ableism and all forms of oppression
  • To expose the myths & stereotypes that maintain the cycle of oppression
  • To probe the reality and daily experience of personal and institutional oppression and privilege
  • To identify and strategize actions to challenge oppression, personally and institutionally within the organization

Design

This workshop can be designed for one to three days in length and engage up to 40 participants.

Agenda

(The agenda will be designed to meet your needs in a one to three day workshop. Other experiences may be added but all of the following would not be included in a one day program.)

  • Opening
  • Workshop Guidelines
  • I Remember…
  • Working Assumptions
  • Cage and Cycle of Oppression
  • History Read Around
  • The Level Playing Field
  • Identifying Our Privilege
  • Ally Behavior
  • Interrupting Oppression – Intervention Techniques
  • Our Next Actions: Personal & Institutional Strategies and Action Plans
  • Closing

Racial Justice Programs

All Program Topics

The activities about privilege helped me see my own privilege in ways that I never had before, especially as I heard folks talk about being denied things I took for granted. And the sense that I was not – as a white male – treated as the enemy but as an ally (at least potentially.) —Workshop participant
The realization that “systems of oppression” diminish us all and cause so many missed opportunities. —Workshop participant
How gentle you were. How quickly and deeply we coalesced. The work on adultism and how brilliant the young people were! —Workshop participant