Question 1

Can more than one person from my organization participate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the sessions are open to any eligible participant on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

Question 2

Will I have to write a poem?

Accepted Answer

Nope! We will read together and discuss poems that you will receive ahead of time, and we will do some written reflection, but you will not be asked to write or share a poem of your own.

Question 3

Do I need to have previous experience with poetry?

Accepted Answer

No prior experience with poetry is needed -- we use poems as the launch point for our conversation, but you don't need to know anything about (or even like!) poetry in order to participate.

Question 4

Will we be discussing structural questions such as hiring practices, salary equity, etc.?

Accepted Answer

There is opportunity within the session to discuss ways in which the anti-oppressive practices modeled within it could be integrated into the workplace, but the goal of these sessions is interpersonal connection and growth, which can provide an excellent complement to structural change.

Question 5

Will I have to tell personal stories about race and my life?

Accepted Answer

Within the session, each person decides for themselves how much or how little to share, and what their level of personal disclosure will be. Sharing is always voluntary and never pressured or mandatory.

Question 6

Is there a limit to how many sessions I can register for?

Accepted Answer

Two types of Critical Conversations sessions will be offered through this program: Belonging and Inclusion, and The Continuum of Harm. Participants may register for one Belonging and Inclusion session and one Continuum of Harm session.

May 5 Critical Conversations Anti-Racism session: the continuum of harm