During the 2020-2021 academic year, The FDC was pleased to host a series of conversations for faculty and staff to extend dialogue around race, diversity, equity, and inclusion as a part of a 5-university Associated Colleges of the South Diversity Grant entitled ACS CREATE (learn more about the inter-campus project at our blog.) Of special note for us is our Furman facilitation team featured here. These conversations included:
- Conversation 1: Foundations in Anti-Racism: Identity and Privilege:
Words matter, and generating shared understandings is one of the cornerstones of a healthy classroom and campus climate. In this introductory session, colleagues will consider some key concepts that are the basis of Anti-Racist advocacy. - Conversation 2: Equity @ Furman: In this conversation participants will delve into considering equity, how it may relate to identity and privilege, and consider how we may address equity gaps within our spheres of influence.
- Conversation 3: Anti-Racist Allyship in Context: Students and Colleagues: Sense of belonging and mattering are key predictors in student and colleague success and retention. We can support an inclusive climate when we understand impact vs. intent, employ empathetic active listening, and diffuse micro-aggressions. In this conversation we will discuss case studies to guide development of potential action plans for how to be an anti-racist ally.
We currently require 2 weeks advance notice to schedule group facilitation for May or June 2022. You may also use this form to request facilitation for Fall 2022. In your registration form, please list at least two 1 hour 15 minute blocks of time the majority of your group is available for this conversation. Click here to register your group.
Our CREATE facilitation team is currently working with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at Furman to explore opportunities to expand the program in the future. We look forward to providing updates as they are available.
In addition to our program, Furman University offers conversations for students. The Intergroup Dialogue Program offers numerous dialogue classes focusing on race, gender, and political identities in addition to student-facilitated “Dins Dialogue” workshops run by the Center for Inclusive Communities. Please visit their website for more information.