Talking when talking is tough: Taking on conversations about race, sexual orientation, gender, class and other aspects of social identity

Abstract

Conversations that involve aspects of social identity are important to engage in, yet challenging. They involve diverse experiences, worldviews and differential social power and privilege. This paper explores why it is important to engage in difficult conversations about social identity, what the consequences are of avoiding them, what makes them challenging, and how to create an environment where such conversations can occur.

Notes

An earlier version of this paper was presented at the Smith College School for Social Work Monday Night Lecture series in 2000.