Program Overview

Dialogues on Race and Ethnicity

Unlocking the power of diversity in companies, nonprofits, and community groups.

“This was a good way for me to engage in the topic without being defensive. Also, I was really glad to get to know people from other backgrounds in my neighborhood and hear their perspectives.

”

EmpowerEducate

www.ywboston.org/dialogues

Over the course of five Dialogues sessions, YW Boston’s trained facilitators lead the group to:

• Learn about key concepts in race and ethnicity • Illuminate differences and commonalities in lived experience • Collaboratively develop an action plan to improve inclusion

YW Boston can tailor curriculum and format to meet the needs of the group and to complement existing diversity and inclusion efforts. The cost of the series varies by type of organization.

To discuss scheduling a Dialogue series, contact Paula Lima-Jones, Racial Justice Program Manager, at 617-585-5460 or plima@ywboston.org.

Too often, race and ethnicity are barriers between coworkers, neighbors, and communities. Organizations want to be inclusive, but don’t know how to address these sensitive and complex topics. YWCA Boston’s Dialogues on Race and Ethnicity provides a safe, structured way for groups to talk openly about barriers and work together to create solutions.

- Participant, Roslindale community

About YW BostonYWCA Boston is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. As the first YWCA in the nation, we have been at the forefront of advancing equity for 150 years. We have remained a leader through generations by turning the support of those that envision a better Boston for all into creative, effective programs that make positive change.

We have a deep understanding of the problems of racial and gender inequity, and we know what works – engaging people and organizations at all levels. Our programs that educate + empower reach middle school girls, police officers, corporate executives, high school youth leaders, policymakers, and Boston area residents of all walks of life. Everyone we connect with learns what they can do to promote equity in their personal life, social circle, workplace, school, or neighborhood.

To learn more about our programs and how you can get involved, visit www.ywboston.org.

YWCA Boston 140 Clarendon Street, Suite 403, Boston, MA 02116 617-585-5400

Demonstrated impactOrganizations that engage the Dialogues series will see: • Enhanced productivity due to improved communication • Higher morale and strengthened commitment to the group • A safer, more inclusive environment for all

Individuals that participate in the Dialogues series will gain: • Insight into their own racial and ethnic identity • Improved communication and collaboration skills • Increased trust and new relationships across racial differences • Clear direction on how they can improve inclusion

To ensure that the Dialogues program improves racial equity in communities, businesses, and schools, YW Boston measures and tracks change in participants’ knowledge, attitude and behavior.

A program that makes connections For over ten years, Dialogues on Race and Ethnicity has brought together people living or working in Boston for meaningful conversations about race and ethnicity. As businesses, schools, and neighborhoods diversify, they engage YW Boston’s Dialogues series to build trust and understanding across racial divides.

Each of the Dialogues five sessions emphasizes active listening and learning in groups to facilitate new connections and relationships. Session 1: Race and Ethnicity and Personal Identity Session 2: Race and Ethnicity and Opportunity Session 3: Racial and Ethnic Group Experience Session 4: Vision for Inclusion Session 5: Action Plan

Groups in Dialogues

Boston City CouncilBoston Collegiate Charter SchoolBoston Healthcare for the HomelessCurley K-8 SchoolGardner Pilot AcademyFamily Nurturing CenterFranklin D. Roosevelt SchoolHarvard School of Public HealthJamaica Plain communityMassachusetts General HospitalMedicine Wheel ProductionsOneIN3Pine Manor CollegeRoxbury Tenants of HarvardTufts UniversityTrinity Roxbury Presbyterian

More capability recognizing and challenging racial stereotypes

55%

Belief that the resulting action plan will have a positive impact on their

organization/community

70%

Belief that the Dialogues had a positive impact on their

organization/community

80%

After a Dialogues series, participants report: