DEI Learning Group for White Women

This program is a place to transform knowledge into everyday practice in an empowering space. It’s about dismantling dominant culture in ourselves and co-creating an alternative future. All sessions are facilitated by Sally Loftis, Managing Director at Loftis Partners.

We are looking for our next cohort to start 2024. Sign up for our newsletter for announcements.

The program brings together up to 10 participants with similar interests in a virtual format where we build knowledge, mentor each other, and practice new ways of living together. We will discuss the different contributors to dominant culture and explore how we show up as white women. All sessions are facilitated by Sally Loftis, Managing Director at Loftis Partners.

Who might be interested in this group?

White women who are looking to go deeper with their DEI journey. Do you identify with any of these situations?

  • You are feeling anxious about engaging equitably in your workplace

  • You want to dive deeper into how you are showing up as an ally or co-conspirator

  • You want a high compassion and no judgment space to ask questions that are hard and scary

  • You are interested in transforming your knowledge of the DEI space

  • You have seen the benefit of applying DEI knowledge and want to learn more

If you identify with any of these situations, then this group is a place for you.

We are all on our own individual journeys around diversity, equity, and inclusion, in addition to work we may be completing with our organizations, families, and volunteer associations. It’s easy to get frustrated and give up on the journey if you don’t see changes in yourself very quickly. This program is about creating a space to practice new ways of living with a DEI lens and building a support network that spans across the different parts of your life.

What will I receive?

Our program will provide:

·       6 virtual sessions that deepen DEI knowledge, use reflective practices, and build relationships with yourself and the group

·       Actionable ways to transform your DEI knowledge into practice at work and in your everyday life

·       Opportunities to connect offline with your cohort to discuss and practice new behaviors

·       A journal with reflective questions to take your journey deeper on your own time

·       A confidentially curated space to converse with others about your current challenges and celebrate your progress

·       A resource list to help you focus on dismantling dominant culture behaviors in yourself

·       An educated and engaging facilitator and coach with years of DEI experience.

Who is the ideal participant?

This program is specifically designed to support white women. We use this criteria in order to provide a brave space for our participants and not to increase the harm being done to marginalized communities.

Ideal participants also include:

·       21 years old or older

·       Ability to access Zoom, microphone & video capabilities

·       Completed some knowledge-based work on diversity, equity, and inclusion

·       Availability to attend all sessions (due to confidentiality, sessions will not be recorded)

·       Commitment to confidentiality – What’s shared in the group, stays in the group. Take your personal learnings forward with you.

We will ask more detailed questions in your registration form. Also, our 1st meeting will involve the co-creation of meeting agreements for the group.

PROGRAM DATES

Sessions are typically offered every two weeks. Calendar invites + meeting links are provided about two weeks before the 1st session begins. Attendance is required for Session #1 where we will also schedule the following five sessions to be completed within 3 months.

Due to the sensitive nature of these conversations, sessions will not be recorded. If you are unable to attend a session, then you may connect with the facilitator for a mini-material review.

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

Sally Loftis has facilitated in many spaces. You can learn more about Sally here. When asking previous participants what was most helpful about this experience, they shared:

“New connections!”

“Awareness of my own journey with privilege and openness to understanding that journey and how I can show up differently.”

“Validation from the other group members around shared experiences.”

“Being okay with not knowing the answers.”

“Accepting non-closure and comfort with the non-binary.”

“Sharing identities (white women in anti-racist work) with a common goal feel safe to name privilege and what to do with it. Fully show up.”

“A new understanding of the origins of my privilege.”

APPLICATION & COST

What’s required to apply?

Nothing other than your wonderful self! We ask that you complete an application form so we can get to know you and see if we are the right fit for you. The application form is confidential, and there is no application fee.

How much does the program cost?

$600, which covers all costs for the six two-hour learning group sessions, program materials including the journal, and virtual support as needed. Full payment is required before the 1st session begins.

You can also register for a series of 3 coaching sessions for an additional $600. These one-on-one coaching sessions with Sally can be used during the program or up to one year after your particular program ends. For example, you have a troublesome employee or work situation and need a trusted advisor to listen and think through next steps. Or you’ve come to a crossroads in your life and need help making a big shift. You can read more about Sally’s coaching style here.

Are there financial aid and/or scholarships available?

We find that most employers will pay toward a leadership development class. If you need a payment plan, then please contact Sally directly. We are happy to work with you.

How do I apply?

Registration for the 2024 cohort opens soon. Sign up for our newsletter for the latest.