Discussions about difficult and controversial topics, like many contemporary human interactions, are inextricably bound up by racial hierarchies, white privilege, and other systemic forces that promote invisibility and exclusion. In order to avoid “feeling uncomfortable” the default position is often to avoid controversy and stay in our safe spaces and comfort zones. This in turn promotes white supremacy through a collective conspiracy of silence.Â
Our work is predicated upon the idea that if we are to truly “see” and “hear” the voices of all human beings, and not just those who look and sound like us, it is imperative that we recognize, acknowledge, and proactively challenge the structural and systemic barriers that create invisibility. In order to do this, it is important to recognize and address the embodied aspects of difficult conversations – i.e. how they can create physical tension and impact our body language, breathing, and our physical state and well-being. This is where the theory and practice of human rights, focused on recognizing the inherent dignity of all persons finds common ground with an embodied awareness of compassion that is focused on developing practices for reducing harm.
In this course participants will discuss and engage in physiological practices to self-regulate and improve ethical decision making for classroom facilitation. Interactive exercises will provide an opportunity for collaboration and exploration of personal challenges, offering practical tools to support growth and connection. Through this approach the workshop aims to create space for meaningful and impactful discussions by enhancing self-regulation, teaching, and classroom learning experiences.
The course is presented by Dr. Tim Cunningham (Adjunct Associate Professor, Social Science and Cultural Studies) and XaHara MeGod (Visiting Instructor, Creative Arts Therapy).Â
