INSTRUCTIONS:

Assign someone to be a moderator, Colleague A, and Colleague B. Consider ways you can support the one being harmed and how might call in the person being non-inclusive.

Scenario 1

Moderator: During a team meeting, two racialized colleagues, both of whom identify as South Asian, are discussing a group project. Colleague A, who has been at the Kettle Society longer, is giving feedback on the work presented by Colleague B, who is newer to the team and less experienced.

B: I was thinking we could organize the work like this—

A: That’s not how things are done here.

B: Oh, yes, I understand, but we could try—

A: To be honest, I don’t understand how this approach would be realistic.

B: I understand your concern, but let me explain—

A: I think we can all agree, it’s best to maybe  focus on the basics first before offering suggestions.

Moderator: Colleague B appears uncomfortable but remains professional, and the conversation becomes more one-sided, with Colleague A dominating the discussion. Consider how you might “call-in” A and how you might support B in the moment.

Scenario 2

Moderator: You and your fellow colleagues are selected to form a working group for an important project. Everyone in the group is encouraged to contribute equally to the project. During a project meeting, Colleague A, who is a trans woman, is continuously cut off by another group member. During a break in the hall, you overhear Colleague A’s conversation with Colleague B.

Colleague A: It’s weird – every time I try to speak, I’m interrupted. I just feel unwelcome.

Colleague B: I don’t think they mean to cut you off, they probably don’t even realize what they’re doing… [Colleague A is visibly uncomfortable] Look, they’re just so knowledgeable and they’re really valuable to this project, you know? We need to hear from them. Why not just try speaking up more? I’m sure they’ll listen.

Moderator: Colleague B leaves, and you can tell Colleague A looks dejected. Consider how you might support A in the moment and how might you “call-in” B.

Scenario 3

Moderator: You are in a meeting where Colleague A (older woman) is contributing some ideas. You are present during the following interaction between Colleague A and Colleague B (a younger and newer colleague).

A: So, I think if we just adjust our approach in this way, it could really improve outreach and I would love to discuss it more here with you all—

B: (interrupting, patronizing smile) It’s a little … old-fashioned, don’t you think?

It’s the digital age, so we could try to keep up and use a more innovative approach. But we really appreciate your experience and insight. Does anyone have other methods?

Moderator: Consider and demonstrate your immediate response. How might you support A (in the moment, or privately)? And how you might “call-in” B?

Scenario 4

Moderator: You are on the planning committee for an upcoming departmental conference, and you are discussing venues downtown. (You are person C in this scenario.)

A: I do like that venue, but construction around the area is making it difficult for people with mobility challenges to enter the building. I don’t even know where the building ramps are.

Plus, it’s so loud. I don’t know if I’d be able to focus with my conditi– (stops talking as A notices B scrunching their nose, looking ready to disagree.)

B: Yeah, but it’s the best venue. And I don’t know of a single person who uses a wheelchair in this whole department! Anyways, it shouldn’t be that hard to focus, it’s just a little noise, people can get past that, right, C?

Moderator: Colleague A has previously disclosed to you that they have ADHD. You also know of one colleague who is a wheelchair user. Consider and demonstrate your immediate response (specifically in supporting Colleague A in the moment). And how you might “call-in” B, presumably in private outside of the meeting.