Equity: Aspirations to Practice (Panel)
As preparation for the panel discussion on equity Kristina Gonzalez, who moderated and led the panel discussion, gave some opening remarks for background on equity work and how it fits into DEI. Panelists included Rev. Dale Weatherspoon, Rev. Sun Hee Kim, Rev. Sandie Richards and Rafael Saavedra. Slides from Gonzalez’s opening remarks (some slides were repeated and are not included in this set of pictures).
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(Slide 5 is repeat of slide 1; skip to slide 6)
One example Gonzalez used was the curb cuts in sidewalks developed for wheelchairs but they serve everybody. People using walkers, strollers, bicycles, etc. appreciate them.
Equity: who is most marginalized in our system and then creating a new/adjusting the old, so they can participate fully makes it easier for everyone else as well.
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(Slide 8: “Jesus life and ministry”)
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Rev. Dale Wetherspoon shared his thoughts about the isms we need to confront and how to respect others in a way that the other would appreciate (22:04 in recording). Then we looked at the developmental model. Denial—the other people don’t matter; “I don’t care”. Polarization/Defensive—my culture is the correct one; actively work against inclusion. Skipped slides 12+13. The dominant culture says that we’re in danger if we’re uncomfortable, so we Minimize.
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Rev. Sandie Richards shared her thoughts on becoming aware of the dominant culture lens—whiteness (37:26 in recording). It’s ok to be told when our good intensions don’t lead to a good impact. We learn by making mistakes and growing (but don’t keep repeating the same mistakes!). [Skipped slide16. Slide 17 = slide 11. Slide 18 = slide 4]
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Rev. Sun Hee Kim shared her thoughts on shifting from minimization to acceptance (48:56 in the recording). Recognize that one mode/language/style of communication/training doesn’t work for everyone. Make adjustments to fit the needs.
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Rafael Saavedra shared his thoughts as a lay member about laity working with clergy to move along the equity continuum to transform our church culture so all feel they truly belong—aligning intention and impact (56:40 in the recording).
