Authors: Jacqui James and Judith A. Frediani
Publisher: Unitarian Universalist Association
Pub. Date: 1996
Available From: UUA Bookstore

• To create a safe environment for dialogue and exploration
• To understand and appreciate diversity and its implications
• To understand oppression and privilege and their role in them
• To develop anti-oppression skills
• To affirm and celebrate diversity
• To feel compelled to act for justice and to develop action plans for diversity in the congregation.

Size of Group
8 to 20 ideal

Space Requirements
A large, open space with room to divide into small groups

Number of Sessions
8

Length of Sessions
2 1/2 hours

Leader Training
Experienced, skilled co-leadership is recommended. Leaders should represent some of the diversities addressed, and must be able to act responsibly with emotional and sensitive material.

Leader Preparation
2 to 4 hours per session

• Addresses the common aspects of all oppressions, including those not often addressed, such as ageism
• Not just a discussion format; includes a wide variety of activities
• Presents detailed, well-scripted sessions with good openings and closings
• Gives excellent leader background and resources
• Is based on participants' own experiences and stories
• Includes a process for taking action at individual and congregational levels.

Limitation

• May require above-average group skills and commitment from leaders

Adaptability

• Can be used with older youth or with groups of youth and adults together
• The number and order of sessions are somewhat flexible
• Sessions can be used as workshops for camps, conferences, and other special programs.

Review by Judith Frediani