Challenging Your Own Biases in All Situations
At our summer camps near Chicago, we emphasize challenging ourselves and celebrating and appreciating the identity of self and others, and the importance of challenging your own biases. Below is a verbatim capsule of great tips from the 2013 calendar from the Anti-Defamation League.
Everyone, even those who may make sincere efforts to be aware of their use of language, may find themselves inadvertently using language, or making an insensitive comment, that hurts others. While the intent may have been innocent, the impact of the words may deeply affect the listener enough for him or her to respond. In such situations, it is easy to get defensive or to say, “That’s not what I meant.” Below are some guidelines for responding.
Acknowledge your own feelings.
Note how being accused makes you feel. Take time to explore and address your feelings before taking action.
Acknowledge the person’s comments and feelings.
Making sure the person feels heard is the first step to effective communication about the issue at hand. Ensure that you understand the person’s perception. Whether or not the perception is based on reality, it is important to remember that if it feels real to the person, it needs to be addressed.
Assess the situation.
Based on your observiation and conversations, determine the person’s underlying needs. Respond with respect. Understand that even though your behavior may not have been intended as biased, it was perceived as biased. Try to avoid becoming defensive since defensiveness can block communication.
Do not immediately dismiss the accusation.
Look at the situation and yourself honestly. If it turns out that your behavior was consciously or unconsciously prejudicial or unfair, allow yourself to reflect on the incident. Be willing to acknowledge what happened and modify your behavior accordingly. Remember that all people have biases. Being willing to admit when you are wrong is a powerful strategy to promote a respectful, inclusive environment.
For more tips go to www.adl.org/education
Do you have good tips to add to the above from the ADL?