Facing Racism Institute
What is the Facing Racism Institute?
The Facing Racism Institute is the area's leading program for uncovering racism and understanding its impact on individuals and the workplace.
More than 600 people have attended the Facing Racism Institute.
Racism is still a powerful force in our lives and community. The Institute challenges participants of all backgrounds to be part of an equally powerful dialogue. We provide the safe space and neutral guidance needed to help that dialogue emerge.
Through presentations and exercises, participants engage in and build a shared understanding of racism together. After facing racism and its impact on individuals, businesses and our community, participants develop tools to create an inclusive workplace and community.
How do I apply for the Facing Racism Institute?
We seek a wide range of participant backgrounds to ensure a high quality, dynamic and robust cross-cultural conversation. Check out the available sessions and use the application link on the right to apply for this great experience.
Upcoming sessions
2021 Sessions
October 21-22, 2021
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This will be a virtual session.
Full session attendance is required.
Cost
$350 MSU employees
$400 Community members
Please contact us to inquire about non-profit rates.
Application
Facing Racism Institute Application
Questions?
Email Office of Inclusive Enagement or call 417-836-3736 for more information.
What past participants say about the Facing Racism Institute
"The Facing Racism Institute has been very beneficial to every individual that has gone through it. It is the best experience that we have found to have people understand the challenges and perspectives of folks unlike themselves. It is hard to be inclusive if you don't understand what others might feel like."
-Jim Anderson, Vice President of Marketing and Public Affairs, CoxHealth
"The Facing Racism class was a transformative experience for me. Not only did I learn a lot, I learned a lot about myself. This class is so important for our community today, and will be vital for our success tomorrow. I highly recommend this class for anyone who cares about the future of Springfield."
-Greg Burris, City Manager, Springfield, Missouri
"Facing Racism challenged me intellectually and ethically. It has caused me to rethink how I regard and interact with people who may be different from me. It is a powerful, liberating, life-changing two-way experience, well worth every second."
-Tim Rosenbury, AIA, Managing Partner, Butler, Rosenbury & Partners
"Springfield has benefitted greatly from good ideas we've brought back from other communities. Our improved airport, the Q, and our regional economic cooperation are some of the examples of things we "borrowed" from other cities. Maybe one of the most transformative, however, is the Facing Racism Institute we first saw modeled in Grand Rapids, MI. The more people who share that experience in our community, the more vibrant we'll be. Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, and we're better for it."
-Brian Fogle, CEO, Community Foundation of the Ozarks