2023 Pete Tarantola IAC Conference: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Please join us for the 2023 Pete Tarantola Interagency Conference: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference.

Conference Timeline:
Registration: 9:00 a.m. All participants will receive The Color of Friendship children's book for attending.

View table displays of area agencies and organizations: 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Welcome and Keynote speaker: Taneya Higginbotham, CEO/President of The RealiTea ProjecT Inc. 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (with break in the middle)

Lunch provided – 11:10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

5 Breakout sessions 12:10- 1:00, 1:10 – 2:00, 2:10-3:00
Adrienne Graham, Author & Lincoln Elementary teacher: A Friendly Look at Diversity (The Color of Friendship)
Participants will understand the importance of teaching young children about diversity. They will also learn new ways to embrace and celebrate diversity with young children. The presentation would include information about my book, The Color of Friendship, why I wrote it, how I use it in the classroom and community, and how I've used it as a parent.

JQ Adams, ACE MIDWEST: Reconnecting Through Humanity
Participants will learn the 4 Pillars of human understanding. Participants will discuss the importance of dignity, respect, trust, and safety in human social interaction.

Michael Maher from SRC: Implicit Association Test (IAT) Dealing with the implicit association test (IAT). This test can be taken online, and it measure various implicit, unconscious biases.

Sarah Schoper from One Human Family: Talking About Race: What it is, Determining When it is Involved, and What to do When You Mess up
Participants will learn how to define race and intersectionality, how to determine if something is about race, and what they can do if they mess up talking about race. During the presentation, participants will be asked to share their thoughts, participate in activities, and consider experiences they've had in relation to the content being shared. Resources for further learning will also be provided.

Regina Johnson/Champion for Five Consulting
The Things We Need to Know: Language, Bias, & Blind Spots
Through this interactive session, participants will engage in conversations and activities, allowing them to examine their cultural and personal blind spots. The presenter uses the most current texts, theories, and best practices supporting a growth mindset in regards to DEI work. There will also be an examination of the language (terminology) we use, coupled with the way in which we communicate it, has an impact on our relationships professionally and personally. Additionally, a focus on intent vs. impact is assessed as it relates to an individual's cultural blind-spots. The presenter takes pride in creating space for authentic and vulnerable learning/growth.

Q & A panel discussion for any follow-up questions to close: 3:10 – 4:00

Educator PD hours and Social Worker, Counselor, Therapist CEU's will be issued