EXEC 24-21 Academic Senate as a Brave Space

RESOLVED: that the Academic Senate endorses the following norms of behavior for all senators (voting and non-voting) to create a brave space in which dialogue, accountability, and agency are fostered and in which sensitive topics can be addressed by all senators:

Stay Engaged: Members will commit to remaining present and engaged in discussions (on campus and on Zoom), actively listening to the perspectives and experiences of others. 2. Speak Your Truth: Individuals are encouraged to express their thoughts and feelings honestly while respecting the viewpoints of others. 3. Experience Discomfort: Acknowledging that difficult conversations may invoke discomfort, members will approach these moments with openness and a willingness to learn. 4. Move to Action: Discussions should lead to actionable outcomes, ensuring that insights gained contribute to meaningful change within the academic community.
Protection of Opinions: A safe environment for open dialogue and honest expression must be upheld, thus the opinions expressed during Academic Senate discussions shall not be used punitively against members, including students, and shall not be used to challenge, restrict, or withdraw tenure, rank, non-tenure track employment, staff employment, or student enrollment, or the rights granted thereby; and be it further

RESOLVED: that the Academic Senate will provide ongoing support and resources for members to engage in Courageous Conversations,[1] fostering an environment where all voices are valued and heard. Support shall include the following:

Workshops and Training: Offer regular workshops focused on the principles of Courageous Conversations, including techniques for effective communication, active listening, and managing discomfort in discussions. (At senate retreat) 2. Facilitation Guides: Distribute guides that outline best practices for facilitating difficult conversations, including strategies for ensuring inclusivity and respect. 3. Discussion Circles: Create opportunities for small group discussions or circles where members can practice these conversations in a safe and supportive environment. 4. Online Resources: Develop a repository of online resources, links and/or references to relevant literature articles, and research on topics related to race, equity, and social justice, as well as Glenn Singleton's work; videos, podcasts, and articles that explore themes of equity and inclusion, and the processes involved in Courageous Conversations. 5. Peer Support Networks: Establish peer support networks or mentorship programs to encourage ongoing dialogue and provide a space for members to share experiences and strategies. 6. Feedback Mechanisms: Implement anonymous feedback tools that allow members to share their thoughts on the conversations and resources provided, helping to continuously improve the support offered. 7. Access to Experts: Invite guest speakers or experts in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion to share insights and facilitate discussions. These resources aim to enhance members' skills and confidence in participating in meaningful conversations and contribute to a more inclusive academic environment.

RATIONALE:

Effective communication and collaboration are essential for fostering an inclusive and productive academic environment. Glenn Singleton's framework for Courageous Conversations provides a structured approach to engage in meaningful dialogues about race and the “agreements” he identifies are applicable to other difficult dialogues that may be necessary for faculty, student, and staff voices to be heard in the process of shared governance. The CSUDH Academic Senate recognizes the importance of establishing shared norms of behavior to guide our discussions and interactions and this resolution serves to reinforce our commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive space for dialogue, ultimately enhancing our academic mission and community engagement.

[1] The agreements presented here borrow heavily from Glenn E. Singleton’s Courageous Conversations about Race: A Field Guide for Achieving Equity in Schools and Beyond (Corwin 2021).