‘Unconscious Bias’ - Monica’s Presentation 12 October
Monica was our Guest Speaker 2 weeks ago on the topic of ‘Unconscious Bias’ and Rotary’s approach to countering this. Unconscious bias can be learned at an early age. It can be difficult to counter.
In 2018, a worldwide Rotary LGBT + Fellowship group was formed and sanctioned by the Board of Rotary International. There are currently 150 members worldwide. Monica is the DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’) Educational Director as well as our District 9980 DEI Officer.
In 2019, Rotary International approved a Rotary DEI statement:
“At Rotary, we understand that cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture is essential to realizing our vision of a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change.
We value diversity and celebrate the contributions of people of all background across age, ethnicity, race, colour, disability, learning style, religion, faith, socioeconomic status, culture, marital status, languages spoken, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity as well as differences in ideas, thoughts, ideas, values and beliefs”.
Monica explained unconscious bias, what it is and examples of bias types and how we should counter such as individuals. She covered examples such as stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination as well as examples of the consequential effects on individuals unconsciously targeted and affected.
Monica encouraged us all to reflect on our interactions on a daily basis looking inwardly for ‘areas of discomfort’ regarding others.
Here are links to Monica’s presentation.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kFC7669quE
Education about Unconscious Bias is available from the Rotary Learning Centre.
https://learn.rotary.org/members/learn/catalog/view/80 (This is via 'My Rotary' login available to Rotary members)
