STLinATL

In this workshop, participants will explore the concepts of equity, diversity, justice and cultural sensitivity from a variety of perspectives to see the relevance of these topics in K-12 education, how they can be raised and approached in the classroom, and the role of personal and group practice in addressing issues like implicit bias, stereotype, power relations, structural and cultural violence, trauma, and inequity in interpersonal relations, classrooms, schools and communities. The facilitators will provide a review of current research on inequity and bias in K-12 education in the US. They will also introduce practices for educators and students that support the establishment of greater equity, justice and compassion in the school community through the cultivation of self-regulation, impartiality, empathy and compassion, and systems thinking. A global, international perspective that attends to and respects local realities will be stressed. Participants will engage in experiential activities and mindful dialogues to examine these topics so that they are equipped to facilitate such experiences with their students.  Participants will be asked to actively participate in exploring how such an approach can move us forward in addressing inequity and diversity in a way that enlightens and empowers all.