Next Steps re: Diversity and Social Justice | September 2020 Executive Director Update

“Instead of looking at the past, I put myself ahead twenty years and try to look at what I need to do now in order to get there then.”
-Diana Ross

Below is an update from SPA's Executive Director, Nathan Victoria. If you would prefer to read the update, access the transcript.

As stated above, continuing with our commitment to Diversity and Social Justice as noted in our Statement of Solidarity, SPA would like to conduct a few more listening sessions for the SPA community. These sessions will provide a clear and transparent process where all members can get involved in shaping our Diversity and Social Justice agenda. Please reserve your spot for any of the four listening sessions we have planned focus on the following topics:

Centering Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Social Justice in our Learning and Programming

Wednesday, October 14, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (ET)

During the June Town Hall, a few members commented on diversity and social justice issues being addressed “only in the last slide” of a presentation, rather than identifying how diversity and social justice issues can impact all areas of learning and doing. This meeting would be to continue to identify research agendas and educational programming for SPA to conduct to advance our impact in larger social responsiveness around these issues.

Creating Intentional Inclusion Efforts for Students and Early-Career Professionals

Tuesday, October 20 , 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (ET)

The SPA Diversity Grants and groups like SPAGS do benefit our younger members and give access to opportunities. This was specifically highlighted in the Town Hall; it was also offered that SPA be more intentional in programming and offerings for these populations (younger members and members from diverse backgrounds). From specific mentoring programs to exploring how we can give greater access to SPA to undergraduate students, there are a few programmatic initiatives that SPA should explore. Join this town hall to share your ideas and give feedback on a few initiatives the Board is already considering.

Redefining SPA’s Commitments to Diversity and Social Justice and Developing a public Non-Discrimination statement
Thursday, October 29, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (ET)

Building off of input from the previous sessions, those gathered in this conversation would react to some of the ideas previously identified. Additionally, the previous Diversity and Social Justice committee established a mission statement and produced Exchange articles, but currently, SPA does not have a board approved statement on SPA’s commitment to these issues of Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Social Justice. The board has approved an initial draft, and we welcome member feedback in this discussion.

The Role of a Diversity and Social Justice Committee

Monday, November 9, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (ET)

The original Diversity and Social Justice Committee identified some tactical areas that SPA should focus its work on, as well as some overarching goals that frame these tactics; however, the overarching strategy that supersedes this framework needs to be further discussed. This meeting would be for individuals willing to serve on a longer-term basis to support these specific initiatives moving forward, once the SPA Board decides how to best support our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Social Justice work.

Reserve your spot

Please indicate your interest in the topics through this registration form. Note that although we will not be recording the conversations, we welcome input for those who cannot attend through email to nvictoria@spaonline.org. Finally, note that call information will be shared at least two days before each listening session.

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