Description

Most of us can think of leaders who were not inclusive, but identifying role models for inclusive leadership presents a challenge. As requested by participants in their discussion last May, Larry Naylor and Kate Neville are returning to present a series of three workshops to further define what inclusive leadership really looks like. The workshops will include several interactive modalities to engage everyone in an experience that will deepen their understanding from a variety of perspectives.

WORKSHOP TWO – Modeling Constructive Conversations About Race in the Workplace

Even for experienced and effective leaders, the topic of race can seem to carry the force of Kryptonite, causing them to get flustered, go silent, or quickly change the topic. Most current leaders have had the privilege of not having to think about race so have not developed the skill of speaking about it candidly. In fact, many were taught that it was not polite to acknowledge racial differences and simply to “treat everyone the same.” Since neuroscience has demonstrated that not noticing differences is impossible, how can leaders build their capacity to acknowledge and discuss racial differences and their impact in the workplace.

Some leaders have recognized that their silence on the topic implies complicity with the status quo and issued public statements of support. Conversations across racial differences within their organizations require a deeper level of involvement, and even those who want to engage may remain uncertain of what to say. It can be uncomfortable, but anyone in a leadership position has already had experience going outside their comfort zones to get to where they are.

Doing anything new, particularly in highly visible roles, is uncomfortable, and learning a new skill takes preparation and practice. Developing the capacity to talk about race productively counters the perception that white leaders think they have nothing to contribute to the conversation because it doesn’t apply to them. Recognizing that race is an issue for everyone and the need to talk about it responsibly makes a bold statement in and of itself.

Conversations go both ways, and while one can never fully understand what it is like to have another person’s lived experience, truly listening to others’ perspectives can create connections, lead to shared understanding, and relieve tension presented by perceiving the topic as taboo. This workshop will address how leaders can set clear expectations, manage their emotions, and create an environment in which conversations about race, conducted skillfully, provide an opportunity to ultimately improve management skills, collaboration, and results throughout an organization.

Participants must register by 5:00PM on October 12th to receive details on joining the discussion. The Zoom link will be sent out 24 hours before the event.

Please note that no refunds will be issued.