Bias-NRT’s Rules of Engagement

This is a living document. Edits can be made in the shared G-Drive folder, “Bias-NRT_Research Practica/Trainee Resources”

• Own your impacts, even they’re not what you intended (be mindful that repeated experiences of bias, e.g. microaggressions, can inflict harm/trauma)
• Don’t withhold critical feedback; it can be very useful (it’s good to get your bad news at home)
• Couple criticism with suggestions (be constructive)
• Be active and engaged and come prepared (and make sure to have a take-away from your interactions)
• Seek to understand before responding (remember – you have the freedom to just listen!)
• Don’t jump into the fray of an argument unless you’re familiar with its history or willing to learn about it. (And beware of the person who has read just one book.)
• Critique arguments, not individuals (even if you strongly disagree with them)
• Respect privacy
• Practice active empathy (give the benefit of the doubt, but don’t fail to address what needs addressing)
• Consider the context or addressee (if a trigger warning is merited,  do it in good faith)
• Don’t dominate the conversation (sometimes raising hands may be warranted, but allow spontaneity}
• Try not to seize or interrupt a personal topic or story
• Invite participation without putting people on the spot (silence needn’t be a threat)