Creating Shared Language for Justice

Language isn’t fixed; it is always evolving. We cannot expect to work effectively and inclusively with others if we do not have a shared understanding of what various words and phrases mean and/or do not create opportunities for exploring the various ways language is being used or interpreted. When redesigning for justice, language setting is key to co-creating an inclusive practice. Language setting is the process by which people assess and co-create definitions and shared meaning for words, terms, and ideas.

In this interactive 2-hour learning engagement, we will use small group breakouts, individual reflection, and large group discussion to define and demonstrate the power of language + the importance of language setting, call for learners to begin to co-create shared meaning, and explore how to implement this practice in their own lives to create more inclusive and justice-centered environments.

By the end of this session, learners will be able to:

• Identify ways their understanding and use of language has been shaped and how this may be different from others.
• Identify how their relationships with power influence their work and team cultures as it relates to language.
• Share an initial plan for how they will engage with words + phrases they do not understand and/or how they might respond to others who are looking for clarity/understanding.

Note: The session will be recorded and made available to all registrants along with the slide deck for a limited time within 2 business days following the live session. Previous iterations of this session were titled "Co-Creating Shared Meaning: Language Setting as an Inclusive Practice".