"A Space to Talk" Curriculum

“The Participation Pledge” begins the training with an agreement to: Listen and learn with an open mind while considering new perspectives. Fully participate in all conversations and group activities. Be respectful of all participants and support an environment free of judgement, blame, ridicule, and guilt.
Explore why conversations about Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity make some people uncomfortable. In a group activity, practice analyzing and neutralizing the discomfort.
Discuss the definition of privilege and what it means to have privilege in America.
What does intersectional mean when applied to contemporary social issues? In a group activity, discuss the intersectional issues facing this unique group of participants.
Discuss the definitions and applications of the following concepts and examine how these topics are linked to exclusion and inequality: Diversity, minority, protected class, inner city, urban, low income, immigrant, cult, religious freedom, English language learner/ESL, liberal & conservative
Examine the difference between equality and equity. Why are both important
Explore the current population demographics in the America.

Explore the importance of gaining a full and complete understanding of history and discuss the difference between blame and appreciation for past events.
Review a condensed historical timeline of American history, including key events of discrimination and prejudice.
Participate in a group exercise in which participants will analyze their unique roles in history and study past and current events from a new perspective.
Explore an overview of world religions and contemporary LGBTQ+ topics.

Examine bias and stereotypes in a group exercise titled “When people meet me, they assume…”
Discuss common stereotypes and why they are harmful.
Explore the effects of bias in popular culture and the media through a series of activities and brief videos.
Learn how bias affects decisions in the workplace and how we can overcome bias to create a more equitable organization.
In a catalyzing group exercise, explore the spectrum of beliefs and experiences among program participants.

What does belonging mean? Is the definition different when applied to the workplace? What factors can contribute to a company culture without a strong sense of belonging? What can you do to elevate belonging in your organization?
Review the current demographics of your organization’s workforce. As a team, conduct a brief SWOT analysis of the data.
Review the organization’s policies related to DIBE and discuss how to remain in compliance.
Each participant will share a time in which they experienced or witnessed bias in the workplace. They will discuss their reaction to the situation and the group will analyze how to best manage similar situations in the future.
Discuss how to apply the concepts learned in the program to the operations of the organization, including recruiting, human resources, internal & external communications, and leadership.
As a team, outline a DIBE action plan for the organization. Include milestones and measurements for success.

Participate in concluding group activities customized to the industry and operations of the organization.
Review the concepts learned throughout the program. Participants will analyze how their viewpoints have changed:

How will you approach uncomfortable conversations about DIBE now that you have a greater understanding of the concepts?
What do privilege and bias mean to you? How can you help others understand these important concepts?
Why are stereotypes harmful and how will you avoid perpetuating them?
Why are equality and equity important?
What does belonging mean and why is it important to company culture? How can we help others feel like they belong at work and in social groups?
What is your unique role in history and why is it important to have a full and complete understanding of historical events?
What is your role in maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and equitable company culture?