We strive to create inclusive programming and a welcoming space for all of our attendees. With that in mind, we ask that our presenters design workshops through a lens of inclusion. The information provided here should help you get started.
Thanks to Jaelynn Scott for sharing these suggestions and resources with us!
- Try to center the experience of people of color in one’s entire presentation and not as an addendum. Ask yourself: Does this resonate with persons of color, is this only true for one race and economic class? Should I lead with the story of a person of color?
- Do the images represent the spectrum of trans* persons?
- Consider whether it is appropriate to bring up possible triggers such as assault, violence, etc. What trigger warnings might be needed for people of color?
- Are people from the global minority (white people) dominating a conversation?
- Maybe, ask a friend from a marginalized racial/ethnic group to review your presentation.
- Is your language accessible to all and free from jargon and unnecessarily haughty language?
- How are the POC members of your audience responding? Should you pause and check in with how everyone is doing?
- Leave room for persons least represented in the room to speak first? (See progressive stacking). Maybe say, without putting anyone on the spot, “I notice that we are hearing a lot from ______ (white cis men), is there anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to speak and would like to speak now?”
- Consider Progressive Stack or Privilege Stacking: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progressive_stack
- Review the EBMC Multicultural Interactions Agreement (#6 at the bottom of the EBMC Diversity Practices web page):
https://eastbaymeditation.org/resources/diversity
