There’s an exercise that I’ve seen used in diversity trainings that has to do with labeling or cultural identification.
On a piece of paper, create two columns. On the left, list the groups you would use to describe yourself, that you might identify with.
For example I’m white, Jewish, Female, mother, social justice, close affinity with Latino culture, etc. In the right column, mark down how you think others see you. For example, white, female…
Invariably the left column–how you see yourself, is a much longer, deeper analysis than how you believe others see you.
But what if you could see both at the same time? Would that help to lessen unconscious bias, or would it create new dimensions of stereotyping?
