Equitable Facilitation 101

Equitable facilitation means creating a brave and welcoming space for all participants, while actively working to dismantle systems of oppression. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind when facilitating anti-racism training:

1. Establish clear norms: At the beginning of each training, establish clear norms and expectations for how participants will engage with one another. Encourage active listening, respectful communication, and a willingness to learn from one another.
2. Recognize power dynamics: Facilitators must be aware of power dynamics and privilege that may exist in the room. Take steps to create an environment that is safe and welcoming for all participants, regardless of their identities.
3. Use inclusive language: Be mindful of the language you use and aim to be inclusive of all identities. Avoid assumptions about people’s identities and be willing to learn from your mistakes.
4. Encourage participation: Encourage participation from all participants, especially those who may be less likely to speak up. Be aware of who is dominating the conversation and work to create opportunities for others to share their perspectives.
5. Address conflicts: Conflicts may arise during the training, and it’s important to address them in a constructive and respectful manner. Encourage participants to address conflicts directly with one another, while also being willing to step in and facilitate if needed.

If you found these facilitation tips useful, learn more about our train the trainer anti-racism modules at: https://www.unscriptedconsult.com