Social Sciences Race Conversations 10/4/21

Hard Discussions: How to Participate in Today’s Race Conversations

Racism. It’s hard to discuss. Many of us lack the skills or we’re concerned about being judged for honesty that may seem racist. How do we get beyond these barriers so we can normalize the conversation and create positive change? Join Dwinita Mosby Tyler, founder of The Equity Project, as she creates a “space filled with grace” and teaches you how to participate in this important conversation. First, Mosby Tyler makes sense of the social movements that have attempted to address racism to this point: diversity, inclusion, equality and equity. They are not the same things. Why are we focused on equity now? Next, Mosby Tyler defines systemic racism, showing tangible ways the past is reflected in the present. Yes, America is still facing the impacts of slavery today, even if it appears we have come so far. With an understanding that people get uncomfortable when the conversation always looks back to slavery, Mosby Tyler shows you ways to “roll the conversation forward” with present-day examples. For example, learn about the surgeon who practiced on enslaved Black women and how his actions still have ramifications for healthcare today. Then, watch Mosby Tyler’s TED Talk on allyship and discuss ways that people are passive allies (putting a BLM poster in their window) and active allies (joining a nonprofit focused on equity). Is it ok to be an active ally even when you have no idea what you’re doing? (Yes!) Mosby Tyler shares ways to give everyone grace as they learn to be allies because, as she says, “People can’t be anti-racist when you’re beating up on them to be anti-racist!” Finally, Mosby Tyler leads an equity leadership lab, conducting role-play activities and helping you discuss scenarios from your own life. Come away empowered to have the hard conversations and to make the change you seek in the world.

Four Zoom sessions

Mon., Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25, 2021, 6:30–8:30 pm MT

ENRICH 0557 / $140

Dr. Dwinita Mosby Tyler is the chief catalyst and founder of The Equity Project, LLC—an organization designed to support institutions and communities in building diversity, equity and inclusion strategies. She is the former senior vice president and chief inclusion officer for Children’s Hospital Colorado, and also the former executive director of the Office of Human Resources for the City and County of Denver.