Last year around this time, Dr. Kathy Obear, an expert on triggers, was on our campus. She presented a day-long workshop on naming and navigating triggering events, especially triggering events based on a subordinated group identities. I was a key organizer of the event, so my participation in the actual workshop was limited. But I know that over 220 higher education professionals, students, and community member’s worlds’ were ROCKED because Kathy challenged everyone to think about not only naming triggers, but also responding to our triggers in ways that are conducive to understanding and reconciliation. My default, when triggered, is to shut down. For instance… Once, while staying in Vegas, some friends of mine, all White, began to share that upon check in, there we all given the option to upgrade to a suite. And in one instance, the upgrade was free of charge. This happened not to one of my friends, but ...
An exploration of Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability reflections from PLU Student Leaders, Advocates, and Activists. Spring 2021 we are asking contributors to reflect on anti-racism.