DIVERSITY TRAINING WORKSHOP

"Oppression" refers to a social dynamic that involves the interaction between power and privilege. This interaction lends itself to certain ways of identifying or being identified being normalized or privileged while other ways are disadvantaged and marginalized. This systematic process usually involves the privileged gaining power and access to resources at the expense of the marginalized. Forms of oppression include racism, classism, sexism, heterosexism, ablism, and other "isms."

The Women’s Multicultural Resource and Counselling Centre of Durham is committed to providing an anti-oppressive place for women and children to seek assistance. We believe that anti-oppression work goes beyond the walls of our office and we offer training workshops to the members and agencies of the Durham Region.

Understanding that we are multifaceted beings with dynamic and multidimensional identities, it is important to recognize the dynamics that play out in the potent intersection of power and privilege. Through interactive training workshops tailored to your specific needs, we work to actively challenge the various forms of oppression. We work to facilitate discussions, self exploration and a movement towards change in a safe and open environment.

The following are some of the topics addressed in the training:

Oppression:

• • Power

  • Prejudice

  • Intersecting oppressions

  • Mainstream and marginalization

  • Privilege

Barriers to social change:

• • Socialization

  • Resistance and fear

  • Communication

  • Empathy

Barriers to organizational change:

• • Accountability

  • Structure

  • Sustainability

  • Training and development

  • Dialogue and discussion

  • Goal setting

  • On-going assessment

WMRCC currently offers 2 workshop formats:

• • Half-day workshop: 1½ – 2 hours

  • Full day workshop: 3 - 4 hours

Other formats can be customized to suit the needs of your group.

For more information or to arrange a workshop for your organization, please contact WMRCC of Durham at:

Tel: (905) 427 7849 Fax: (905) 427 9299

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it