Workshop: How to deal with microaggressions

Committee members Gerry Yokota and Terry Tuttle of JALT's DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Committee) will lead this workshop to learn about microaggressions: what they are and how to transform them into opportunities for growth and connection in the classroom, in the workspace, and in other professional situations. We will begin with a basic introduction to the concept of microaggressions and provide models of fundamental strategies for intervention, with ample time for Q&A. Attendees will then be invited to engage in groups with scenarios based on typical situations encountered in diverse work environments. Attendees are encouraged to bring examples of guidelines and codes of conduct from their own schools and workplaces for critical examination. 

About the presenters: 

Gerry Yokota teaches at Osaka University, Kansai University, and Ritsumeikan University. In JALT, she serves on both the DEI Committee and the Code of Conduct Committee. In her research, she takes an applied cognitive linguistic approach to the representation of gender in popular culture, with a focus on intersectionality.

Terry R. Tuttle is an Assistant Language Teacher working for the Moriguchi City Board of Education and Coordinator of the JALT Gender and Language Education SIG. He completed his M.S.Ed degree with a concentration in TESOL at Temple University, Japan Campus. His current research focuses on English team teaching dynamics.