LEARNING AND CONVERSATIONS COMMITTEE

Mission

Offer all colleagues the opportunity to gain new perspectives and share in conversations to help us become more aware, compassionate and engaged in the quest for equity.

Members

Aldo Muccia, Lisa Phocas, Kesha Smith, Carrie DeLuca, Justin Cislo, Meaghan

Kroener Janson and Latondra Riley

Executive Sponsors

Jay Curran, Ben Collins and Kevin Lambert

HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2022

MAY 2022: LUNCH THROUGH A LENS — GENDER IDENTITY

Imagine carrying the added emotional weight of having to deny one of the most fundamental aspects of who you are - your gender identity. Despite a growing global awareness of the struggles trans people face, many companies that are LGBTQ+-friendly usually focus more on the “LGB” than on the “TQ+” and hence are ill-equipped to create a workplace culture that is truly supportive of trans colleagues. We welcomed Genevieve Wicker who shared her unique story of navigating gender identity and ultimately choosing to become a woman. Her open, candid insights enhanced our journey toward greater understanding and inclusion.

JUNE 2022: JUNETEENTH PRESENTATION

We were honored to welcome guest speakers Ohavia Phillips and Brittany Moore to discuss the significance of Juneteenth with our colleagues. Brittany shared how her unique perspective on the historic day led her to spearheading the “Lighting up Uptown for Juneteenth” initiative. We also heard from Ohavia about why it’s important to continuously share the history of Juneteenth and work diligently to be educated and intentional rather than performative.

SEPTEMBER 2022: LUNCH THROUGH A LENS — ARTLIFTING

ArtLifting creates opportunity, empowerment and validation for artists who have experienced homelessness and/or disability by providing the chance to secure their own income through the sale of original paintings, prints and products. By showcasing and selling artwork via ArtLifting, artists gain self-confidence that permeates all aspects of their lives. During this lunchtime presentation, we learned about the innovative mission of the organization, as well as the personal and professional impact it’s having in the lives of the artists.

OCTOBER 2022: HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTS + CULTURE

Our Charlotte-area colleagues took place in a guided tour where they learned more about African American culture and history from trained museum professionals, and gained a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context of the artwork and artifacts on display.