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Racism 101 (Oregon Focused)

Course Description

Often when we struggle to communicate with someone on issues of race and racism, it’s because we are using different meanings for the words that make up our conversation. This workshop will include an investigation into the terms we use to discuss racial justice. We will navigate a brief history of race in Oregon and explore events that shape the region we live in today. Workshop members will analyze the differences between interpersonal, cultural, and institutional racism and the harms and benefits they create. There will also be a discussion on the impacts of racism on advocates and survivors of domestic and sexual violence and how to integrate anti-racism work into our organizations.

LOCATION

Online via Zoom

PRICING AND REGISTRATION

For any questions regarding registration, our sliding scale, work-trade opportunities or accessibility needs, please contact the social justice team at sjp@ywcapdx.org or (503) 294-7480.

ACCESSIBILITY

This class will be held online via Zoom. Please contact us to let us know if you need specific accommodations.

VIRTUAL CLASSROOM TIPS

Thanks for joining us online! Here are some suggestions for getting the most out of this workshop:

  • Mute your microphone. To help keep background noise to a minimum, make sure you mute your microphone when you are not speaking. When your microphone is not muted, avoid activities that could create additional noise.

  • Engage with the class. These are intended to be workshops, not webinars! Please come ready to engage and participate, and help build community within the “classroom.” Not everyone is able to participate via webcam, but if you are able, we ask that you do so as much as possible.

  • Limit distractions and avoid multi-tasking. You can make it easier to focus on the meeting by turning off notifications, closing or minimizing running apps, and muting your smartphone. You’ll retain the discussion better if you refrain from replying to emails or test messages during the meeting and wait until after the workshop ends.

  • Help us improve our program! Each workshop will have a brief survey sent out. All results are anonymous and help us continuously improve our program.

  • Take notes. Our facilitators’ own their presentation material so it is not a requirement for the presentation to be shared afterwards.

  • Need an accommodation? Email us so we can create an ideal learning environment for you. sjp@ywcapdx.org

GROUP PARTICIPATION FRAMEWORK & AGREEMENTS

While guidelines and expectations will vary from workshop to workshop, most of these apply to a typical workshop session:

  • One speaker at a time. When one person talks, everyone else listens.

  • Community wisdom. Nobody knows everything, together we know a lot.

  • Take space & give space. Be mindful of how much you’re participating in the discussion.

  • Intent vs. impact. Before sharing, consider how what you say will affect others in the group.

  • Confidentiality. Details shared in the class stay in the class, but what’s learned goes with you.

  • Active participation. In this environment, it’s better to be open and imperfect than worry too much about being overly articulate.

  • Embrace discomfort and expect non-closure. Learning and growth can be stressful, do your best to hold space for those feelings.


PRESENTER AND CONTACT INFO

Presented by: Debbie Elias

Debbie has extensive experience working with survivors of sexual and domestic violence as a highly skilled advocate, community educator and support group facilitator. Her passion for social change has been a motivating force throughout her life. She is a first-generation Lebanese immigrant, with a culturally diverse upbringing and years of living, working and traveling in various parts of the world. For self-care she enjoys Tai Chi, gardening and lots of laughter!

Contact Us
Email: Christina at christinaf@ywcapdx.org or Shay at shayb@ywcapdx.org
Phone: (503) 294-7395

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December 7

Refilling Your Cup

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December 11

Dismantling Racism