Talking To, Taking From: Language as Power

At the end of the time together, participants will:
*Be more conscious and aware of words we use, connotations and assumptions;
* Be able to identify words and phrases that empower, give agency, and/or counter negativity; 
* Identify opportunities to use justice impactful language with others.

How often do we pause in our work and consider the impact of words and language? 
Do you consider how words and phrases we use can empower, signal appropriation, or reinforce systemic racism or bias? 

As Planners, and with a responsibility to engage thoughtfully with people we work with or serve, we owe it to ourselves to examine how our language holds power to change or maintain status quo. As well, examining the language we use can illuminate how we exclude, diminish, or uplift people of different race, ethnicity, or heritage.

In this interactive, participatory session, we will examine how words and our presentation of words can have an impact on others. 
After an introduction, brief description of the power of words, importance in justice work, and identifying who is in the room, we will break into groups to discuss a certain aspect of language. 

1. Welcome and Introduction: Facilitator introduction, who is in the room? 
Set agreements for respectful discussion and debate.

2. Group "thought exercise" as a large group: 
What comes to mind when I say ___? 
Are you aware of words or phrases that have overtly positive or negative connotations? Did they start that way? 
How much do you connect language justice with other justice advocacy or initiatives? 
Note: No profanity or derogatory language will be tolerated.

3. Breakout groups: Participants will break out into groups (group size will depend on number of total participants) to discuss and debate a certain term, phrase, reference, or aspect of language. Note that the terms etc for discussion will be chosen by the facilitator and will not include any profane, derogatory, or hurtful terms or phrases. 

Words or phrases for discussion could include: referencing a demographic group such as the use of Latinx; Language Access Plans (importance, what is included); how to advocate or promote access to services (words that empower and convey messages in unambiguous and direct terms); words or phrases appropriated from another culture; and similar.

4. Regroup and report out: each group will report what they discussed, any outcomes or significant points, and impact of the discussion. 
After each group reports out, all participants will discuss anything learned, methods to reach communities more effectively and advocate for justice, and how they might be more cognizant of their word choice and impact going forward.