DISCRIMINATION WORKSHOP
by Lilian Ing, Organisational Dynamics Consultant, 1994
We stand on the brink of one of the most challenging tasks facing our country – the task of reconciliation. An historic event has swept our country politically. Now, the real change lies ahead – that which affects our hearts – attitude change. This is what will determine whether we manage what lies ahead effectively or not. If we choose heart change, unique and exiting opportunities lie ahead. History will not, however, judge us kindly if we choose to allow our past to continue to separate us rather than to bring us together as a unified nation.
There is a great diversity of peoples in South Africa, but it is likely with our heritage that difficulties will inevitably arise – unless we can learn to value all differences – to appreciate the individual and his/her uniqueness, so that rapport develops between and among individuals and a spirit of reaching common purpose.
It was with this goal in mind that this workshop was developed by Lance Bloch and I. It is true that many South African consultants are currently addressing these issues, so we do not claim that this workshop is unique. It is however, a deliberate attempt to address individual uniqueness and an appreciation thereof, rather than cultural issues per se. We believe that in dealing with cultural groupings and issues only, one may still be generalising and stereotyping and thus lose sight of the individual and his/her uniqueness.
During this workshop, you will have the opportunity to develop an understanding of the issue of diversity – in all its facets. As the workshop is experiential, you will be asked to actively participate in the activities. These may prove stressful, but will always provide you with opportunities and challenges to get to know yourself and others in all their diversity. You will be talking about topics such as your own ways of doing things, your own personal experiences of stereotyping and discrimination and the impact of your individual cultural background on the way you interact with other people. You will be encouraged to experiment with new ideas and behaviours, new ways of working with people – and this may not be easy. But then, change is not easy. Be assured, however, that you will not be exposed, humiliated or ridiculed. The workshop environment has been designed to offer you a safe place to share information and experiment with new ways of doing things. At the end, you will make active plans for change in order to help you to follow through on your experience in your day-to-day life.
With this process, you have the opportunity to create a new future, by laying to rest the ghosts of the past : The legacy of institutionalised discrimination – stereotypes about other groups, negative attitudes and prejudice – which prevent us from working together to engage in nation building. Life in the new South Africa holds so much potential. May this workshop be the start of a way of life that is interesting and challenging and helps you to contribute something of worth to our nation.