The Equity Journey – Small Group Discussions Begin
The first series of small group conversations were rich and impactful. The word cloud illustrates how people were feeling after the group discussions and reflects the hopefulness, and gratitude of those who participated. It also reflects the personal contribution each participant made to creating welcoming space which nurtured these rich conversations. Leaders’ honest participation and presence enriched the learning experience for each of us who has committed to this learning opportunity. Kristen Fogle, CEO of San Diego Writer’s Ink, concurred, “I loved partaking in the session. The small group format was wonderful for reflecting more deeply and getting attuned to where others are at. This is an amazing programming opportunity!”
Participants in The Equity Journey include individual leaders, nonprofit CEOs and their leadership teams, and leadership teams with boards of directors. The program is providing groups a share language and understanding of concepts critical to leadership in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion, including the difference between equity and equality, and the concepts of intersectionality and micro-aggressions. It is serving as a first step to the organizational discussions and decisions that will be required by nonprofit organizations to address these issues in their workplaces and in service delivery to their clients.
Torrie Dunlap, CEO of Kids Included Together, is participating with her leadership team from across the country. The online curriculum makes it possible for her team to learn together remotely and then to come together for further discussion on what they are learning as they move toward implementation. Torrie credits Fieldstone Leadership Network San Diego for “doing so much to to support the new and emerging needs of the field so quickly and with such high quality. Fieldstone is such a gift!”
Groups are now beginning Module 2 and will meet together during the week of October 19th for the next round of small group discussions. The second Module focuses on personal leadership and ends with each learner creating a personal plan to advance social equity.
For more information on The Equity Journey, please visit our website. You may also add your name to our interest list to be contacted about our next offering. The Equity Journey is offered as part of Project Stone Catcher, which aims to provide opportunities for nonprofit leaders to develop the skills and understanding necessary to lead nonprofit organizations in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion and to advance social justice issues for the broader community. Project Stone Catcher also aims to build a community of stone catchers who trust each other, offer support to one another and provide safe space for exploration and discussion of issues that have historically been difficult to discuss.
