Workshop Conduct

STRS WORKSHOP CONDUCT

The content of this list has been created with the intent of creating a safer space. We encourage all participants to be aware of their individual social locations and the privilege it affords them. We do this as a step towards dismantling oppressive power dynamics and structures, as well as to ensure the safety of each person involved.

• Strive to be present for the workshop from beginning to end (there is a lot of cumulative information given in a short amount of time.)
• Participate to the extent you feel comfortable. This is a safer space where any person should feel comfortable pushing beyond their comfort zone in a way that is beneficial to everyones learning.
• Listen and encourage others to speak, especially if you are a person who has no fears of speaking. Take risks to speak up if you consider yourself a shy person in group discussion.
• Actively listen—support opinions or challenge them in thoughtful, constructive ways.
• No interrupting when someone is talking, no name-calling or insulting commentaries. Ask clarifying questions as opposed to arguing.
• This is an environment where attendees are allowed to “mess up.” Participants may make comments or ask questions which offend or anger other attendees. The ability of the speaker to listen respectfully to constructive criticism from other attendees is an important part of the process. We must also keep in mind the intent behind the action.
• Any attendee who, through words or actions, causes others to feel in danger or threatened will be asked to leave.
• Please think before you speak. Consider the words you chose to express yourself and the manner in which you express it.
• If any participant feels like these guidelines are not being upheld, or has concerns about how the workshop is being conducted, please communicate this with the facilitator or assigned mediator.  If this is not a possibility, email or communicate these concerns to the STRS collective in any way which feels comfortable.
• We must keep in mind that developing anti-oppression practice is a life-long process and requires a life-long commitment. No single workshop is sufficient for learning to change one’s behaviors.

STRS would like to credit Pedro Ferbel-Azcárate “White Studies” syllabus, as well as the Winnipeg Mondragon cooperative’s “Use of Space” conduct for inspiration in creating these guidelines.