So many times, we avoid talking about diversity issues because of our fears that intense feelings such as anger and hurt will emerge and disrupt whatever hopes we might have for productive and authentic discussions on such issues as racism, sexism, classism, etc. The reality of such fears is that we really don’t have much training or practical experience on how to facilitate most situations where conflict, anger and hurt occur. In addition, we have often been indoctrinated that when anger arises it will possibly lead to abuse, violence and chaos or that someone will become re-wounded and re-traumatized.
The truth be told, the dilemma is that we have actually been inundated with awareness trainings, but seldom skills training on how to work successfully with diversity issues. In this popular workshop, Lee Mun Wah, master facilitator, filmmaker and therapist, will demonstrate how mindfulness exercises and personal stories utilizing empathy and curiosity can transcend one’s fears and stereotypes and help promote a deeper sense of community and compassion for each other’s differences and similarities.
The Buddhist believe that a crisis is both danger and opportunity. Learn how to work with what is the room by making use of everyone’s personal stories and journeys as well as how those experiences have shaped who they are and who they are not and why.
Through the use filmed vignettes, personal stories and mindfulness exercises, participants will learn:
- Advanced conflict mindful facilitation techniques
- How to create a sense of community using curiosity, empathy and compassion
- A myriad of ways to relate mindfully and authentically
- How to use group process to promote validation and deeper understanding, community and trust
- How to notice and make use of intent and impact
- To develop listening and culturally sensitive responsive communication techniques
- Advanced empathetic techniques that promote intimacy and trust