Workshop | Building an Inclusive Future: Confronting Racism in the Workplace

Have you taken a close look at what proactive steps you are taking to confront and hold people accountable for racism in the workplace?  

In this training session we share our steps to address racism within our organization and create a culture of inclusion and accountability.  The session will focus on identifying gaps in your policies and practices, creating a baseline in knowledge, establishing a safe space for open dialogue through a Racial Harm Hotline, and launching an effective Racial Harm Policy that promotes accountability, behavior change, and fosters an inclusive environment.  

Handout(s):

🔗 Equity Learning and Coaching Plan

🔗 Racial Harm Policy

🔗 Mapping Your Journey Worksheet

🔗 Home Forward Equity Accountability Spectrum

Aimee Smith's lifelong dedication to public service, her adept understanding of systems, and her commitment to fostering community have been driving forces throughout her life. Growing up as a military service dependent in a dynamic and ever-changing environment laid a solid foundation for her to effortlessly engage with others, build strong communities, and navigate diverse cultures.

Aimee embarked on her journey in Human Resources, Training, and Organizational Development over sixteen years ago. Throughout her career, she has held various roles, ranging from Technology Trainer to Organizational Effectiveness Manager, within both public service and non-profit healthcare organizations. Her unwavering dedication to serving the community has consistently remained at the forefront of her work. Currently, Aimee proudly serves as the Director of Human Resources for Home Forward, a leading housing authority dedicated to serving the residents of Multnomah County.

In 2015, Aimee's professional focus began to shift as she actively engaged in efforts to address systemic bias, the incorporation of systems of oppression into human resources practices, and acts of racial harm that were impacting employees. In her present capacity, she is both excited and passionate about deconstructing established norms and practices to create an anti-racist culture and a more inclusive experience for all Home Forward employees and the broader community it serves.

I am a Black woman from Portland, Oregon who is committed to helping my community find their authentic voices and stand against bias and racism. With over 15 years of expertise in social justice, I am a dedicated advocate for historically marginalized communities, skilled at addressing issues of racial and social injustice. Being the Director of Equity for Oregon’s largest housing agency has had challenges, but it also has had a lot of successes. As Founder and Board President of The Poetic Justice Foundation, I manage a substantial budget and lead community empowerment efforts. Through SEA Change Consulting, I offer services like equity-informed mediation and workshop facilitation. I am committed to fostering dialogue and driving positive change for a more equitable society. My life’s mission is to assist individuals with unlocking their potential, gaining an equitable view of the world, and building skills to be in line with an anti-racist lifestyle.