#StayWoke…Live Inclusively: Cultivating Critical Consciousness at the Intersection of Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice

Description

In corporate D&I “speak,” being “woke” could be likened to the ongoing quest for self- and “other” understanding. It means having a deeper understanding of how systems influence inequitable outcomes. It refers to one’s capacity to be curious, always asking, “Why?” rather than retreating to one’s default, “conditioned” way of thinking. “Staying woke” means committing to ongoing learning and exposure to what may be unbeknownst to, or uncomfortable for us. When you’re “woke,” you have the capacity to challenge the root causes of systemic inequities. If you’re an ally, being “woke,” means understanding your privilege, leveraging your influence, and amplifying the voices of those you seek to support.

This session will consist of a curriculum that supports D&I practitioners in “staying woke” by understanding concepts and theories of equity, inclusion, and justice. The session will specifically cover key terms and definitions, and underscore the role of language in navigating the intersection of D&I and social justice. Facilitators will cover social identity group membership, power, privilege, equity vs. equality, champions vs. allies vs. accomplices, and more.

Learning Outcomes:

• Broaden one’s understanding of the sociological and theoretical underpinnings of equity, inclusion, and justice.
• Navigate the intersection of D&I and social justice given the current sociopolitical environment.
• Provide direct application of theory to workplace D&I strategies.