DEI Updates: Week of 01.31.22
New: Implicit Bias & Microaggressions gsLearn Course
We have a new gsLearn course that focuses on understanding unconscious bias and its connection to microaggressions. The course has three modules: definitions, everyday examples, and strategies for intervention. Please check it out and reach out with any input.
DEI Committee Application
If you’re interested in joining the DEI Committee, please complete this application form. New hires must be employed with GSCO for at least 90 days before eligibility to apply for the committee. Applications are accepted until Friday, February 4th by EOD.
DEI Learning Track
Complete this brief form to let us know which DEI trainings and events you’ve attended.
Call to Action
Today in Black History
Tomorrow kicks off Black History Month which is a time to recognize, celebrate and amplify the contributions of Black people in our country. Check out Today in Black History to learn about the various events and people who’ve shaped Black history in the US. Also, be sure to check out our gsEvents calendar for Black History Month learning events that we’ll be hosting at GSCO (trivia, a community presentation, and a showcase for any GSCO youth earning their Black History Patch).
World Hijab Day.
Feb 1 is World Hijab Day. Check out this video to learn more about the hijab, why some women choose to wear one and what it means to different people who wear it. Tune into this video if you’re curious about cultural appropriation and a brief history of hijab wearing as a tradition in various faith communities.
Upcoming Opportunities
Xinchatli
Voces Unidas for Justice is offering a free 16 session training for Chicanx, Latinx and Indigenous girls and gender expansive youth. Designed to embrace their uniqueness as a Latina through culturally specific learning and activities. At each session, youth will have the opportunity to affirm their confidence, develop their strengths, and connect with others and discover their full potential. Ages 14-18. Every Saturday from 1/22/22 to 6/5/22 at 2519 Airport Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80910. Click here to sign up.
History on the Plate: Deconstructing African American Food History
Wednesday, Feb 23 at 5pm MST. Join Phipps Conservatory for a virtual free special presentation with Dr. Jessica B. Harris on African American cuisine. At this special virtual event, Dr. Harris will use traditional stories, illustrations and history to discuss the importance of food in African American history and culture. Beginning with a traditional African American plate, the presentation will focus on eight plants important to African American cuisine: rice, corn, peanuts, okra, watermelon, chili peppers, leafy greens and sweet potatoes. The presentation will run 40 – 45 minutes and be followed by a 15 – 20 minute Q&A. Sign up here.
Brown Girl Dreaming: Exploring Identity & Belonging with Jacqueline Woodson
Wednesday, February 2. Please join Facing History for a special virtual presentation from New York Times bestselling author Jacqueline Woodson. In her acclaimed memoir, Brown Girl Dreaming, Ms. Woodson uses verse to tell her family story, recount her experience growing up amid the remnants of Jim Crow and the growing Civil Rights movement, and reflect on the joy of finding her voice through writing. Ms. Woodson will discuss her experiences and her writing, followed by a Q&A with questions from Facing History students. Reserve your spot here.
Decolonizing Restorative Justice
Tuesday, February 22 from 7:00-8:30pm MST. Join this virtual panel with the authors of “Colorizing Restorative Justice” who will discuss decolonizing restorative justice and acknowledging the harms of slavery and genocide. Click here to sign up.
Joyful Fridays: The Black Panthers
Friday, February 4 at 9am. Kick off Black History Month with your little ones during this lesson on how the Black Panther Party contributed to the health and wellness of their communities. Then, paint a panther inspired by objects in the NMAAHC collection! This event is designed for children ages 4 and up. All Black History Month Joyful Fridays’ programs are held via Zoom webinar and led by NMAAHC Kids educators. ASL Interpretation will be provided. Sign up here.