Communicating about Culturally Sensitive Issues

Explore principles and strategies that can help you have more productive, meaningful conversations about diversity.

Introduction

• Communicating despite our differences

What Makes Talking About Culturally Sensitive Issues Challenging

• Recognizing feelings around culturally sensitive communication
• Working with our biases and beliefs

Discussing Culturally Sensitive Topics

• Preparing for successful communication
• Starting the conversation with connection
• Practicing true empathy
• Redefining respect
• Conflict as opportunity: Debate vs. dialogue

Communicating in a Culturally Sensitive Way

• Managing microaggressions
• Untangling intent from impact
• Combating gaslighting
• Word choice is everything: Principles vs. rules

Responding to Missteps and Miscommunications

• How to apologize
• Authentic allyship

Conclusion

• Renegotiate the rules of engagement: Creating an inclusive environment