As part of the University of Utah’s One U Thriving initiative, the Anti-Racism Committee invites applications for those interested in participating in intergroup dialogue (IGD). IGD provides a unique learning opportunity to engage on a range of identity topics including but not limited to: race, ethnicity, gender, nationality, class, sexuality and faith.

Selected individuals will participate virtually in a facilitated learning experience led by Dr. Shametrice Davis for two hours a week spanned over a four-month period. During the meetings, participants will explore their experiences with privilege, discrimination and oppression with a particular social identity.

The program will place an emphasis on anti-Black racism and how it is connected to larger understandings of racism and the role each of us plays in a system like higher education. Dialoguing across these differences allows participants to explore ways in which to build coalitions and alliance, increase empathy for others’ experiences and explore commonalities in goals for equity.

Ultimately, the goal of IGD is to be changed by what is learned from others’ experiences. Readings and other resources will be provided prior to each session, and any necessary points of reflection will be curated through canvas to all participants after each session.

Dates for the session have already been selected and it is strongly encouraged to attend each. We are especially interested in applicants who would like to be future facilitators. Space is limited, but we will consider adding additional offerings if there is demand.

Apply here by June 28, 2021.   

IGD Sessions:

• July 7, 2021 | 9:00-11:00 AM
• August 4, 2021 | 9:00-11:00 AM
• September 1, 2021 | 9:00-11:00 AM
• October 6, 2021 | 9:00-11:00 AM

About the Facilitator:
Dr. Davis is an Associate Professor in the Educational Leadership department at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). She has several years of administration experience having worked in academic advising, admissions and diversity programs management. She is currently engaged in research that highlights the use of intergroup dialogue as a method of increasing equity on college campuses. Recognition of her work includes an Outstanding Faculty Award for continual commitment to leadership, advocacy and social justice for students of color received at the University of Vermont and in 2018 and a Most Valuable Professor award at CSULB. She recently spent a year-long academic sabbatical using intergroup dialogue as a foundation to create a campus-wide training on race, racism and equity.