From self-reflection to opportunity and resource
Diversity often stands for a holistic process that examines the diversity and differences of all individuals within a society along with their multiple affiliations and ways of life. The concept of diversity views this as an opportunity and resource.
However, this course is not about a form of “diversity that enriches me“, instead the concern here is to interrogate and reduce institutional/ structural and individual discrimination. Categorization processes are often coupled with entrenched images and attributions that confirm and deepen prejudices and serve as justifications for discrimination.
Repeated experiences of unequal treatment inhibit the development of the individual and thus have a negative effect on the whole.
Diversity trainings serve to raise awareness of discrimination mechanisms and the development and impact of prejudice and bias. The focus here is to deal with one’s own perceptions, values and behaviors.
Diversity trainings, according to the Eine Welt der Vielfalt e.V. ( A World of Difference ©) methodology, utilize and implement techniques that enable self-awareness, and a look at one’s own biography and social positioning.
In addition to raising awareness of power structures; the focus also examines aspects of resource orientation. The aim is to create a space that is characterized by consideration of others, self-responsibility and sensitivity to discrimination so that a conscious approach to diversity can also be experienced during the training. Topics of the seminar include: Identity, the perception of diversity, diversity-sensitive language, prejudices, bias, stereotypes, discrimination, power and privilege and the development of options for action within the personal and professional environment.
In the seminar, participants contribute their personal experiences to the discussions, critically examine their attitudes, and reflect on how they deal with difference. Here, the goal is to expand individual diversity competency and to acquire knowledge regarding individual and structural/institutional discrimination.