Welcome to the Anti-Oppression Workshop Series 3!

Note:

You must select all the workshops you wish to register for in the next step of registration. Please download and follow the instructions so that you receive Zoom links for each workshop. 

Detailed Instructions for module selection HERE

We are on a transformative journey towards fostering equity, dismantling systemic barriers, and cultivating inclusive communities. This empowering series, presented by the Homelessness Services Association of BC (HSABC) and the BC Poverty Reduction Coalition (BC PRC) with generous support from the Health Sciences Association and BC Housing, invites you to explore critical topics and engage in meaningful conversations that promote social justice.

Join us for a series of interactive workshops designed to provide you with the knowledge, tools, and actionable steps needed to create positive change within your own spheres of influence. Delve into the complexities of oppression, challenge harmful norms, and envision a more inclusive society.

 

 

Mark your calendars for the following workshops:

Crip Kindness: May 17, 10 AM - 12 PM

Discover the power of crip kindness and community care in our engaging and transformative workshop led by Heather McCain, an experienced public speaker and Executive Director of Creating Accessible Neighbourhoods. Join us to explore disability, reclaim the concept of "crip," and discuss the role of a Crip Doula in building inclusive communities. We'll challenge harmful norms, highlight the significance of kindness, and identify ways to meet the needs of all individuals.

 

Sex Work in the Sector Panel: June 14, 10 AM - 12 PM

Join our captivating panel discussion and Q+A session with representatives from Ask Wellness-Kamloops, Peers Victoria, Raincity Housing, and WISH Drop-In Center. These agencies are renowned for their unique programs supporting individuals in sex work. Gain insights into their impactful initiatives and engage in valuable dialogue. Featuring panelists Therese Barrozo, Jen Stack, Elisha Hamilton, and Amelia Ridgeway. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and contribute to the broader sector's advancement.

 

2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion: June 28, 10 AM - 12 PM

Join our impactful workshop on 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion led by facilitator Dee Abdirahman, a certified K-12 educator and dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Specialist. Explore power, privilege, positionality, and intersectionality, and learn how to foster an inclusive workplace that embraces 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Discover the importance of inclusive leadership, solidarity, and effective allyship. Dee's expertise, backed by their Master of Education and research on racial inequities, will provide valuable insights for creating systemic change. Don't miss this opportunity to gain tools for building an inclusive environment and promoting belonging.

 

Anti-Oppression 101: July 12, 10 AM - 12 PM

Join our interactive workshop, "Anti-Oppression 101: Through an Intersectional Lens," to learn best practices for anti-oppressive inclusion. Discover proactive strategies for creating inclusive environments regardless of social status, mental health, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. No expertise needed - everyone is welcome to share and engage. Our facilitator, Chanelle Tye, a Principal Consultant specializing in equity and inclusion, will guide us with humor and deep knowledge of power dynamics and privilege. Bring your laptop, notepad, and join us in fostering a more just world.

 

Bullying and Harassment Prevention in BC: July 18, 10 AM - 12 PM

Join our powerful workshop on addressing workplace bullying and harassment to gain the knowledge and tools needed to effectively address these issues. Led by Amanda Thiessen, an experienced therapist, social worker, coach, and educator with over 25 years of experience in the social service sector, this workshop will equip you with practical strategies and insights. Amanda's diverse expertise and qualifications, including a Master of Arts in Theology, a Master of Social Work, and an Organizational Coaching Certificate, make her an exceptional facilitator. Learn how to navigate workplace challenges, advocate for your rights, and foster inclusive and respectful environments.

 

FALL

 

Deepening Trauma-Informed Practices and Skills for Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault: Nov 15, 9:30AM - 12:30 PM 

This webinar will explore trauma, vicarious trauma, and trauma-informed practice through a social-justice and strength-based lens. Participants will consider the fundamentals of trauma (brain, body, nervous system and systems), explore and reflect on trauma-informed approaches and tools to use in their work and build confidence in interacting with diverse persons and communities that have experienced trauma.

Through considering the teachings and writings of Vikki Reynolds, Resmaa Menakem, Kai Cheng Thom and others, participants will be encouraged to analyze the ways trauma overlaps with the chronic and systemic experiences of oppression and racism and how their own lived experiences might impact their work. Participants will be encouraged to be curious, to question and to consider the ways in which a social justice lens can enrich their work and their own experiences.

 

Tackling Anti-Fat Bias in Vulnerable Sectors: Nov 27, 10 AM - 12 PM

Join Layla Cameron, an esteemed academic and filmmaker, in a dynamic workshop focused on combating anti-fat bias within vulnerable sectors. Layla's expertise in fat studies and disability studies brings a unique perspective to this vital conversation.

Explore the insidious presence of anti-fat bias in our society and its profound impact on those experiencing homelessness and poverty. Through engaging discussions and real-world examples from their award-winning documentaries, Layla will equip participants with practical tools to challenge bias and promote inclusivity.

Gain a deeper understanding of the significance of addressing anti-fat bias in the context of homelessness services and poverty reduction. Let's work together to create more compassionate and equitable environments for all.

 

Anti-Oppressive De-Escalation Skills: Nov 29, 10 AM - 12 PM

In this workshop, participants will explore ways to center clients and help them in ways that don’t perpetuate or exasperate power inequities. This session will offer opportunities to work through realistic scenarios and learn how to self-regulate, hold space for clients who may be displaying aggressive behaviours, and de-escalate intense situations.

 

Trans Inclusion for Low Barrier Services: Dec 13, 10-12

This workshop addresses the specific considerations that might arise for trans inclusion in low-barrier services and aims to build on skills and strengths that frontline workers already have, using specialized scenarios and accessible tools to increase trans clients’ safety. The audience for this is typically frontline workers, SRO workers and mental health and addiction workers.

 

Join us as we explore these important topics, learn from experienced facilitators, and engage in dynamic discussions. Each workshop is an opportunity to deepen your understanding, challenge assumptions, and take tangible steps toward building a more inclusive society.

We extend our gratitude to the Health Sciences Association and BC Housing for their generous support in making this workshop series possible. Their commitment to social change empowers us to bring these crucial conversations to the forefront.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the Anti-Oppression Workshop Series 3. Together, let's foster equity, amplify marginalized voices, and create lasting change.