Exploring the concept of 'brave spaces' for difficult conversations, the evolution of inclusive environments, distinctions between safe and brave spaces, challenges in DEI work on campuses, and the importance of supporting marginalized leaders.
Shift from 'safe space' to 'brave space' emphasizes discomfort as a valuable part of learning process.
Misunderstanding or misusing brave spaces can lead to harm, stressing the importance of social justice components.
Supporting marginalized leaders against attacks on DEI initiatives requires reframing language and promoting connection with DEI practitioners.
Fostering accountability and adaptability in brave spaces encourages transformative dialogues and shared responsibility among participants.
Deep dives
The Importance of Viewing Brave Spaces as a Tool, Not a Cure-All
Brave spaces are highlighted as valuable tools but not as magical solutions to all issues. The podcast emphasizes the cyclic nature of trends in student affairs, such as intergroup dialogues, restorative justice, and the current focus on brave spaces. It underscores the necessity of understanding and addressing systems of power, privilege, and oppression within the concept of brave spaces.
Evolution of the Brave Space Concept and Its Practical Applications
The origins of brave space are traced back to experiences at the University of Vermont and NYU. The shift from prioritizing safety to accepting discomfort as part of the learning process prompted the development of the brave space concept. Practical applications include creating ground rules, fostering shared responsibility, and adapting the framework for different contexts.
Challenges and Cautionary Remarks on Using the Brave Space Framework
Issues arise when brave spaces are misunderstood or misused, leading to potential harm. Misalignments between intended and actual usage of the framework caution against cherry-picking aspects that neglect social justice components. The podcast stresses the importance of engaging in critical dialogue and accountability within brave spaces.
Concerns Over Critical Thinking and DEI Attacks in Higher Education
The podcast acknowledges challenges in cultivating critical thinking skills among students in discussing challenging topics. The hosts express worries about orchestrated attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in higher education. They emphasize the importance of standing up against misrepresentations of DEI initiatives.
Supporting Leaders in DEI Work and Reexamining Terminology
The discussion touches on supporting marginalized leaders navigating attacks on DEI in higher education. It raises considerations around reframing the language and terminologies associated with DEI to combat misinterpretations or attacks. Encouraging connection and dialogue with DEI practitioners is highlighted as pivotal for evolving the framework.
Addressing Skills Gaps and Complex Conversations in Student Settings
The challenges of students lacking critical thinking and communication skills for navigating difficult conversations are recognized. Initiatives like the Dialogue Project aim to address these gaps in fostering a culture of open dialogue and conflict resolution within educational environments. Striving for growth and transformation through authentic engagement is emphasized.
Encouraging Accountability and Dynamic Adaptation in Brave Spaces
The importance of fostering accountability and adaptability within brave spaces is underscored, encouraging participants to share authentically and engage in transformative dialogues. Emphasis is placed on the shared responsibility of participants in upholding commitments, navigating discomfort, and promoting learning through brave space interactions.
Looking Towards Future Growth and Collaboration in DEI Initiatives
The hosts express a commitment to ongoing growth and evolution of the brave space framework through collaboration and feedback from DEI practitioners. They highlight the need for continuous dialogue and adaptation to ensure the relevance and effectiveness of brave space initiatives in diverse settings. Encouragement is extended for professionals to engage in ongoing discussions and share insights for collective growth.
The capacity to engage in difficult conversations across differences can be as challenging to develop as it is critical to learning, equity, relationships, and a functioning society. Many folks may be familiar with using "safe space" to frame these conversations. Today's guests have offered a "brave space" framework for co-creating environments for learning. Join Kristi Clemens and Dr. Brian Arao as they discuss the origins of brave space, putting it into practice, and cautions and complexities.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
