As our organizations and communities engage in awareness programs and strategy sessions to undo structural racism, we return again and again to the need for well-facilitated conversations.

This 2-day workshop is designed for anyone seeking skills and practice for advancing and deepening conversations that center race. We will practice participatory methodologies and learn how they have been used to help catalyze transformative conversations that set the ground for sustainable action and change.

“These conversations are always so tense, so painful. People are defensive. We want to believe we are good. To face the racisms and prejudices we carry forces us to recognize the ways in which we are imperfect. We have to be willing to accept our imperfections and we have to be willing to accept the imperfections of others. Is that possible on the scale required for change?” —Roxane Gay

Together, we'll use participatory methodologies such as The Circle Way, World Café, Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, Pro-action Café, and Storytelling Methods with the following intentions:

• Learn the basic assumptions and world views underpinning the Art of Hosting and Participatory Leadership

• Explore case studies that demonstrate the role of hosting transformative conversations in racial justice efforts
• Practice participatory methodologies for hosting conversations that engage diverse perspectives and foster co-learning
• Practice creating powerful questions that invite transformative conversations about race and equity
• Experience the inclusion and embodiment of art and creative expression in collective sense making

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Anyone who is or would like to be engaged in efforts to undo structural racism in our families, communities, faith groups, schools, groups or organizations. You may be deeply engaged in a Racial Justice project or seeking the courage to step forward. We invite everyone who is seeking frameworks and skills to support our collective journey to bring stories, questions, wisdom and curiosity. 

This workshop is eligible for 12 contact hours for Continuing Education for LCSWs and LMSWs. It is co-sponsored by The NYC Art of Hosting Community of Practice and The Workshops at Good Shepherd Services.

HOW TO REGISTER

Non-Good Shepherd Services Staff register here and search for “The Art of Hosting Transformative Conversations on Racial Equity”.  $250.00/$190 early registration expires on 4/24/18. Good Shepherd Services Staff register by logging into WFN-ADP and entering the Learning Management System (see Quick Guide).

For all registration questions please contact Eric_Cartagena@goodshepherds.org, 212-243-7070, ext. 479