Students for Change SDARJ Youth Group
Youth Conversations
These 45-60-minute in-person highly interactive topical workshops are designed to promote thinking and lively discussion. Workshop facilitators deliver essential content and ask questions that encourage group discussion. Topics are tailored to student needs and revolve around SDARJ commitments. Actions and takeaways conclude each session. Workshops are available to students around Sussex County on request.
2023-2024 Example Topics
Bullying
Learn what bullying is (and is not) and why people bully. Take the opportunity to consider and express if you have been bullied, observed bullying or ever bullied. Talk about microaggressions and which persons and groups may experience such behaviours. Discuss active strategies to prevent, intervene and reach out when possible. We ask, What is one thing you might do differently after this conversation?
Stereotyping, Implicit Bias and Microaggressions
Explore how and why we adopt stereotypes and form biases. Create understanding around the injury that can be caused by such unexplored beliefs, leading to harmful prejudices and intentional or unintentional verbal and physical force. Reflect on the microaggressions we have heard about or experienced, and any harms we may have caused. We ask, How might you advocate differently for yourself or others after our conversation today?
Culture and Identity
Learn about factors and forces that help form group culture and personal identity. Participants consider and reflect on their own cultures, sharing and learning with one another. Opportunities are offered to self-define aspects of our identities as well as the larger cultural identities that shape us. We ask, How does your identity and those of others around you affect your daily interactions?
Black Inventors
Discover the numerous contributions and creations of Black inventors, from the first open heart surgery to the potato chip! Learn more about important Black historical figures who did not get credit for their work and ingenuity. Discuss who gets credit, who does not and why. We ask, What can you do if someone takes credit for your work or ideas?