Critical Conversation Community Workshops
Register before July 8 to enjoy the bundle savings!
Critical Conversation Community Workshops
July 10, 2024, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Topic: Learning the Alphabet: LGBTQ+ 101
Sheila Barnhart-Ramirez holds a M.S.Ed. in PK-12 School Counseling and an Ed.D. in Community Care and Counseling with an emphasis on Trauma Studies. The topic of her dissertation was “The Impact of Microaggressions and Microaffirmations on Safety, Acceptance, and Inclusion for LGBTQ+ Middle School Students: A School Counselor’s Perspective.”
Sheila’s presentation, Learning the Alphabet: LGBTQ+ 101, evolved from both her dissertation research, as well as daily interactions with students who identify as members of or allies to the LGBTQ+ community. Despite positive changes in social and cultural norms, LGBTQ+ students continue to endure hostile and unwelcoming school climates that greatly impact their mental health. Implicit bias and a lack of understanding can be obstacles in providing support for LGBTQ+ youth. The purpose of this presentation is to encourage participants to identify personal bias, build empathy, gain knowledge, and create a plan to establish inclusive, welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ individuals of all ages
July 24, 2024, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Topic: End the Stigma. Fight for Tomorrow: A Discussion about Addiction.
This session is in partnership with 2 End the Stigma and founder Jill Zebrowski Cichowicz. 2 End the Stigma works to alleviate barriers to getting help for addiction, through education about addiction recovery and by connecting individuals and families with needed resources.
In February 2017, Jill Zebrowski Cichowicz’s twin brother died from Fentanyl poisoning. To help manage her grief, and as a way to bring something positive out of her family’s devastation, Jill worked with The McShin Foundation, a Richmond-based addiction treatment center, to build awareness about the effects of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) on individuals and families and to help program participants with their recovery journey. She is tireless in her advocacy for critical conversations and her commitment to ending the stigma of SUD. This presentation will model real talk on hard topics, building understanding of Substance Use Disorder and sharing the power of community in the journey of recovery.
August 14, 2024, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Topic: Discussions about Race
Discussions about Race, offered in partnership with Virginia Cooperative Extension. Learn to engage in more courageous conversations on topics of race and racism, by building understanding and through thoughtful practice.
August 28, 2024, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Topic: Trauma and Transformation
Trauma and Transformation, offered in partnership with Robin’s Hope, a Richmond-based program working to empower individuals through a safe, peer-run community that provides connection, inspires hope, and promotes resilience. This session will explore the experience of accessing healthcare from the perspective of a trauma survivor. A conversation will be facilitated regarding what healthcare providers wish their patients knew and what trauma survivors wish their healthcare providers knew. Everyone is welcome to join this important conversation!
Each session will be held from 3-5pm at the Virginia Tech Richmond Center. A virtual option is available, but we encourage you to join us in-person for robust conversation and learning.