AFP, Greater Los Angeles Chapter: OUR WORDS MATTER: CREATING A MORE EQUITABLE WORLD WITH WORDS

“We build a world with the language we use…”

- Jamie Hale, CEO, Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance (London)

With the changing landscape in our society as we create a more inclusive space, oftentimes there is a struggle with consciously or unconsciously using language or words that are marginalizing or disparaging in nature. Throughout our careers, we have experienced discomfort or vulnerability when we say the wrong thing to a donor, colleague or community partner. These moments spur deep reflection at some point in our career/lives. If there is anything that we’ve learned in nonprofit work as fundraisers, it’s that the right words matter. They help build better relationships and create bridges. They shape how we view the world and how the world views us. So how can words help us to define new ways to engage with one another?

Join AFP-GLAC’s IDEA (Inclusion. Diversity. Equity. Access.) Committee and Marla A. Parker, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Public Administration, Department of Political Science and Co-Founder, Civic and Social Innovation Group at California State University-Los Angeles as she helps us to unpack why words matter more than ever. She’ll lead us on an interactive exploration of the types of language and terminology that encourages a culture of constant learning and growth, which is critical in navigating a landscape where language changes. You’ll be given a blueprint of practical strategies, tools and resources that can ultimately be used as the building blocks towards a more equitable sector and world.

About our Speaker
Marla A. Parker, Ph.D. has nearly 20 years of success in the public and private sectors. Her broad areas of expertise include management, social impact, entrepreneurship, innovation, learning and development, diversity and inclusion. In addition, she co-founded the Civic and Social Innovation Group at California State University-Los Angeles, which promotes creative approaches to social change.