America's Racial History
What is the name of the boat which first arrived in what is now Massachusetts?
Mayflower
Define inclusive language:
It is communication style that seeks to honor and respect diverse identities and experiences, promoting equality and avoiding bias?
What is implicit bias?
Implicit biases are negative association that people unknowingly hold. They are expressed automatically, without conscious awareness.
What does DEI stand for?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
What form of communication should we be aiming for?
Dialogue
What regime is responsible for the genocide which led many Cambodians to immigrate to Amherst?
Khmer Rouge
How can this statement be improved: How are you guys doing?
"You guys" is not inclusive. Genderless language is inclusive to everyone.
How can an individual prevent bias?
- Identify your bias
- Expand your social and professional circle
- See something, say something
What does MEI stand for?
Merit, Excellence, and Intellect
What is the difference in purpose between debate, dialoge, and discussion?
In debate we try to succeed or win.
In discussion we try to present ideas.
In dialogue we try to broaden our perspective.
What does the abbreviation NAACP stand for?
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
Which option is more inclusive and person-centered?
A) Epileptic
B) Person who has epilepsy
C) An epileptic person
People first language!
B) Person who has epilepsy
What is the benefit of using a rubric in the hiring process?
This allows for the standardization of the evaluation process, ensuring that all candidates are judged based on the same skills.
What is one criticism of DEI?
DEI training efforts are ineffective
DEI efforts impede freedom of speech and expression
DEI has been criticized for not focusing on antisemitism
DEI is sometimes labeled identity politics
DEI efforts sometimes cause a backlash for people from underrepresented groups, DEI hire vs merit hire
What are techniques that help ensure a conversation is a dialogue and not a debate?
For Example: Show respect
- Deep listening
- Check your assumptions
- Share openly and honestly
- Hear different opinions
- Be curious and reflect
What was the name of the belief that the westward expansion of the United States was justified and inevitable called?
Manifest Destiny
What are the benefits of using plain language?
- Clear Understanding and Accessibility
- Efficiency and Cost Savings
- Trust and Engagement
- Usability and Accessibility
What is Similarity Bias?
“Similarity bias” might lead us to hire candidates who share our background, inadvertently excluding diverse talents.
What is one criticism of MEI?
Perpetuates bias
Narrowly defines merit
Excellence and Intellect are used subjectively
Does not take into account systemic barriers
Ignores history of discrimination
Reinforces a myth that success dependent on individual effort.
What causes the use of words to escalate too violent actions?
Dehumanizing the other person or approving/calling for violence
What year did Puerto Rican residents gain the right to vote in presidential elections?
Trick question, they can't vote in presidential elections!
Why should we use universal phrases in communicating? (Ex: "Let's return to this later" instead of "let's put this in the back burner.")
Idioms, jargon, and acronyms can create barriers for those unfamiliar with a particular field, culture, or generation. Choosing straightforward, accessible phrases ensures everyone can fully participate in the conversation.
There are 10 actions that create more equitable interviews. Identify at least 2:
1. Standardize the Process
2. Use Behavior-Based Questions
3. Assess DEI Competencies
4. Incorporate Skills-Based Assessments
5. Apply a Structured Scoring Rubric
6. Build Diverse Interview Panels
7. Provide Bias Awareness Training
8. Allow Adequate Time for Evaluation
9. Foster Psychological Safety
10. Ensure Transparency in Selection
Is MEI or DEI older?
MEI (230 BC)
What is an example of a statement or question you can use to diffuse a tense situation?
Multiple answers
Example: What do you mean by that? Can you explain? Etc.