This brainstorm is in response to our 4/7/2022 discussion on bigoted language. These two words are particularly ingrained in our daily vocabularies. guys
crazy
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Question: What do I do when my coworkers continue to to use bigoted language (or tell bigoted jokes, etc.) or don't seem to care, in general? Ideas: 1. If they start talking and then catch themselves with a phrase like, "Oh, never mind, you probably wouldn't think it was funny, anyway," then respond with, "That's so kind, thank you! You're right, I probably would think it is insensitive", or "If I wouldn't think it was funny, then other folks probably wouldn't find it funny, either." 2. As much as possible, put the spotlight on yourself. "You know, I didn't realize that the word '-----' had racist origins, but I figured it out when '-----enter your own learning story here-----'. I was really embarrassed, but now I know! I just wanted to let you know so you don't have to make my same mistakes." 3. Practice the behavior you want to see in others. If someone witnesses something enough, they will start to respond. Think of it like water eroding rock; it may take time, but even the smallest endeavors make a difference. 4. Remember that different people have different learning styles. This person may need a different approach than you or your coworkers. 5. Model by both correcting yourself when you make a mistake, and by receiving feedback graciously when you are corrected. Show that course-correction is part of growth, not shame. This question was posed at our 4/7/2022 discussion on bigoted language. The question and ideas for handling the situation are shared with anonymity preserved.
discussion recapContent: language, racism, ableism, bigotry Our April discussion focused on words and phrases with bigoted origins or which have developed these conations through general use. These words may seem innocuous to people who do not have direct, lived experiences with them (e.g. a Black person always seeing the color black used as an indicator of evil in fantasy). Our primary takeaways from the discussion are:
Tactics for change:
resourcesOur spreadsheet of words and phrases, their history, and resources is available via Google Drive. If you have recommendations for additions or edits, please send them to us. upcomingOur May 5, 2022 discussion will be about "calling out" and "calling in." More soon.
We will be posting more in April sharing specific stories and examples from this month's discussion, as well as alternative phrases for two extremely common words: "crazy" and "guys". Thank you so much for a wonderful discussion! |
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