ACG D & I Dialogues (Multiple Sessions)

Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Our communities are beginning to engage in real and meaningful conversations – conversations that reinforce the importance of sharing and connecting on attributes and ideals that shape who we are and what we believe. ACG Detroit & ACG Western Michigan are committed to creating spaces for our members to hold conversations of consequence in the realm of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Some of these conversations are stretching our boundaries and nudging us toward a better understanding of one another and how we can work together in increased harmony. While engaging in such conversations can be uncomfortable and unfamiliar, we are also beginning to appreciate that we’re stronger together when we embrace our differences, accept what we don’t know, and strive toward mastery of listening, relating, and acting for the good of our communal experiences.

Working to expand on our collaboration in the Fall of 2020, ACG Detroit and ACG Western Michigan are launching a new initiative to build a better understanding of the barriers to inclusion in our communities, personally, and in our industries. We are proud to present D & I Dialogues.

This initiative will focus on tactical actions for improvement through small-group conversations over a 6-month period. Each month, the group will focus on one topic with a small amount of preparation in advance of each session.

DETAILS:

The sessions will be facilitated by both ACG Detroit and ACG Western Michigan committee members who have worked to develop discussion topics that are topical, enlightening, and challenging.

• The pilot is for 6 months beginning on January 22, 2021, with each session occurring on the 4th Friday of the month at 8:30 AM).
• Each session will last for one hour, and the format will include a 5-minute introduction, a 45-minute small-group discussion, and a 10-minute debrief.
• Participants are asked to commit to attending all sessions (as much as is possible; participants missing multiple sessions may be asked to leave the group).
• Each session will focus on a specific area. Light pre-reads will be provided. (e.g., articles or videos.) Pre-reads will be provided one week in advance of each session.
• The group will be limited to 30 people during this pilot stage. The large group will be broken into smaller groups at each monthly session.
• As with any initiative that deals with a sensitive subject, participants will be provided a confidential and safe space for participation.

Are you interested? Sign up to participate today and you will be provided with zoom links, participant lists, and other necessary information.

Let’s start making the world a better place!