Representatives from the Bellevue School District, Eastside Pathways, Jubilee REACH, and the City of Bellevue attended “Beyond Diversity,” a regional training in Portland, Oregon. Beyond Diversity is an introduction to Courageous Conversations and a platform to speak about deinstitutionalizing racism and eliminating racial achievement disparities. It is presented by the Pacific Education Group and was hosted by Portland Public Schools.
The three-day training provided skills and tools to have my own “Courageous Conversations” regarding race and the issues that impact my contributions and decisions for the development of children and youth in Bellevue. Tools such as “Agreements and Conditions” taught me how to alter my communication to elevate work relationships. By using these tools, I can be more effective within partnerships to ensure collaborative results.
On a personal note, I engaged in and raised the level of my interactions with the members of the Bellevue contingency. In other words, I left the training really knowing the Bellevue team and feeling that I can talk with them on almost any level, especially on racial issues and how it impacts our work. I also had a good time. I now know who among my colleagues are the marathon runners, beekeepers, deer hunters, and fairy gardeners. These are the same people who share the goal of achieving equity for all of Bellevue’s children!
Is “Beyond Diversity” good for Bellevue? Yes, if we want to move our results and our community forward beyond racial issues. Do I think “Beyond Diversity” will make a difference in Bellevue? Yes, if we actually learn and use the skills and tools. Was the training a good use of my time? Absolutely, the enhanced work relations alone made the time worthwhile. Will I reveal who are the runners, the beekeepers, and the hunters? Now that will cost you a cup of coffee and a “Courageous Conversation.”
Article written by Helena Stephens, family, youth & teen services manager at the City of Bellevue