Implicit Bias Webinar

Along with the video, here is the Implicit Bias Webinar Chat, which includes participant comments and a few recommended resources.

Resources to Learn More about Implicit Bias

Many of the examples I offered in the webinar came from the book, Blind Spot, written by two of the people who designed the Implicit Association Test (IAT). (I may have said “Attitude” last night, but it’s “Association.”) They are academics and take great care not to say anything unless it is backed up by research. It takes them the whole book to conclude that Americans are racist, but they get there in a way that might be more accessible to people who weren’t convinced already. Another good book for a popular audience is Everyday Bias, which is a little more anecdotal.

You can find the different versions of the IAT on the Project Implicit website. Their Q & A page addresses some of the questions raised last night and many others. It’s worth checking out. As I mentioned last night, they warn people that the tests can bring up uncomfortable feelings for people. If you are thinking of taking an IAT, I would suggest journaling afterwards to process those feelings, or if you’re in a community looking at these issues, finding a buddy who also wants to take the test, so you can discuss it afterwards.

Last night someone asked about free resources for a study group. This is a great short summary of implicit bias by the Perception Institute. This interview with John Dovidio gives a concise summary of some of the research findings and mentions the point I made about “benefit of the doubt” being more likely to go to white people. There are many other articles online, depending on what you want to focus on. This one focuses on ways for teachers to decrease their own biases and links to other resources. Have fun doing your own research.

Other Resources for Making the World a Better Place

There are tons of books and films on different aspects of racism and sexism, as well as other arenas where implicit bias operates. Go to your local library. Use google and see what speaks to you.

If you are looking for more personal support, especially in working on racism, check out the work of Dr. Amanda Kemp. Amanda is a friend (full disclosure), a Quaker, a writer and performer whose work focuses on racism, and she provides coaching to those who want some personal mentoring. I adore the way Amanda combines a fierce commitment to justice with a big, open heart and grounding in Love. Another person who brings this combination is Niyonu Spann, whose Beyond Diversity 101 workshops are legendary. (I’m excited to be taking her training for trainers in October.)

As for learning about social change more broadly, I would love if you continued to work with me. My upcoming four-week online course explores how we can build power and makes time for you to reflect on how to use your own gifts most effectively.

Blessings on the journey!