Purpose:
We have evidence that the year-long process of ERG is having an impact on individuals: helping them recognize their bias and prejudice, understanding the various aspects of racism, their contributions to the system of racism, and taking steps toward addressing racism in their personal lives, organizations, and community. At the same time, we are aware that a program initiated by senior white businesspeople, with all the biases and blind spots that implies requires guidance. We seek accountability and feedback to help improve what we are doing. We have a diverse panel of individuals, people of color, different genders, different occupations and professions to guide us. Expectations:
1. Time commitment – Meet two times per year (approximately 1 1/2 hour via video) with quarterly written updates provided to the Accountability panel to keep informed of current status of ERG.
2. Given our mission, provide feedback and insights regarding, e.g.:
a. Structure of our process:
– Year-long
– Monthly meetings
– Check-in for action steps desired/accomplished
b. Curriculum content
-Readings and videos
-Discussion questions
c. Suggestions for learning opportunities outside our meetings, e.g.,
– Reality tour
– St Joseph’s Neighborhood Center breakfast meetings
– Black community events
d. Suggestions of sources of people of color to participate in ERG cohorts
e. Ways and means to accomplish our mission we may not have consider
f. Role of the ERG Facilitator – expectation review
g. Ways and means to build ERG group connection/rapport – with each other and with the community
h. How “edgy” should we be? What are the bounds of challenging and pushing?
Interested in assisting us? Please contact any member of our Steering Committee