Building Belonging
Addressing Racism and Discrimination with Courage and Respect
Have you ever witnessed racism and hesitated to speak up, unsure how to respond? Or made a misstep and wished you knew how to make it right? In this free interactive event, we’ll explore how to address racism and discrimination with courage, compassion and humility—especially in predominantly white communities navigating DEI backlash. We’ll reflect on how to align our intentions with our impact, how to listen deeply and how to build a culture of belonging where everyone feels safer and more valued.
The evening will begin with a brief presentation, followed by an open forum for questions and community participation. You are welcome to come to the whole event or drop in when you can. Bring your curiosity, your concerns and your commitment to justice—no question is too small when it comes to building a more inclusive world.
This event is free. Guaranteed seats are now sold out, but there may be some available at the door.
About Dr. Lisa Gunderson
Dr. Lisa Gunderson (Akua Offeibea) is a clinical psychologist and an award-winning educator, community leader, speaker and equity consultant/trainer for Canadian and US educational, businesses and organizational institutions. For the past 30 years she has focused on anti-racism and equity issues that impact racialized (IBAPoC) and minoritized populations. She is the recipient of the John Young Advocacy Award for “courageous, principle-based efforts advocating for equity and access for all students.” and she was nominated for the BC Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Award in the category of Breaking Barriers. She is currently the Deputy Leader of the BC Green Party and the first person of African descent to assume that role.
This event has been made possible through the generous support of the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program of the Government of Canada. Brought to you by the Mir Centre for Peace and Intercultural Kootenays.