Priority Areas

Community Series on Bias

Purpose

Discuss bias, both implicit and explicit, that can occur inside a community. Participants will learn tools and skills to identify various biases, navigate privilege, and work toward improving inclusivity and awareness. By the end of the series, participants will be able to recognize bias within themselves and others, and find productive ways to hold each other accountable and become more equitable.  This series is coordinated by a joint collaboration between the North Plainfield School District, the North Plainfield Borough, and the North Plainfield Police Department.

Series 1:  Defining Bias April 15, 2021  6:00 - 7:00 pm

Bias is human and natural; our goal isn't to eliminate it; rather, we must recognize it when and where it exists in order to overcome it.  Discriminatory practices occur around us each day, targeting individuals who fall outside of many different societal expectations.  Join this talk to gain a better understanding of terms and identity groups that are often impacted by bias.

Series 2:  Micro-& Macro-Aggressions April 22, 2021  6:00 - 7:00 pm

Microaggressions are individually elicited comments/actions toward an identity group.  They are systemic policies/procedures that discriminate against particular identity groups.  Join this talk to learn about the different types of -aggressions and start the conversation around the meaning behind many of the statements we hear and see in today's society.

Series 3:  Unpacking Fragility & Privilege  April 29, 2021  6:00 - 7:00 pm

Privilege is surrounded by quite a bit of guilt and defensiveness (otherwise referred to as Fragility); however, privilege is unearned and not meant to evoke shame. Privilege can exist in many different ways, and often goes unnoticed when not being actively considered.  Join this session to initiate thoughtful reflection around privilege and how to use this privilege toward being an active ally.

Series 4:  Becoming Anti-Discriminatory  May 6, 2021  6:00 - 7:00 pm

After participating in the previous three sessions, attendees will have garnered reflections on where they are within society (in relation to perspectives of others).  Ultimately, our goal is not simply to talk, but to act upon becoming a more inclusive and equitable society.  Join this session to learn how to hold one another accountable and continue individual growth around the existence of discrimination and how to move from being an ally to marginalized individuals toward being an advocate and co-conspirator for change.