Have You Ever Been Called Racist, Sexist, Ageist? How to Respond to ‘ist’ Mistakes with Michelle Dew

Have you ever been called a racist? The first response when others call attention to our actions or statements may be defensive. “I am not that kind of person. I did not mean to cause harm.” Merriam-Webster defines an ism as “an oppressive and especially discriminatory attitude or belief.” Many of us feel that we don’t perpetuate ”isms.” But in truth, the insidious complexities of isms – racism, classism, and sexism to name a few – mean we may all play a part in the perpetuation of systems and behaviors that can harm others. What is the difference between being a racist and engaging in racist behavior? How do the unintended slights that arise out of ignorance or fears of different cultures, impact the people that we interact with every day? Defensive reactions over our mistakes can rob us of the opportunity for true and deep learning. Join us for an interactive dialogue on how to respond to “ist” mistakes. We will learn how to reduce defensiveness, and instead pivot to accountability, healing, and understanding. If we wish to be strong allies against isms, we must start the work within ourselves. Is there a difference between being a racist and engaging in racist behavior? REGISTER HERE.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Michelle works as a Communication faculty member at GateWay Community College. Her areas of focus include identity, active listening, diversity, inclusion, equity, service-learning, and nonviolent communication. For the past nine years, Michelle has served as a MOSAIC (Maximizing Our Strengths As an Inclusive Community) diversity and inclusion facilitator for the Maricopa Community Colleges. In addition to this work, she also serves on the Healing Racism Committee; a group that facilitates public dialogues concerning current events and topics related to racism, Arizona communities, and American society.