Chapter 1: Introduction

[Mark Jochem]

1. Watch a five-minute video introducing the “Libraries Talk About Race” program. The video will:

• Explain the objectives of the program
• Give an overview of the content
• Explain how the portal works and tips for making for successful experience for each participant.

2. Reply to the forum chat:

• Name and pronouns (optional)
• Community or organization you are from
• Why you’re excited/interested/compelled to engage in the conversations?

• This topic was modified 2 years, 7 months ago by IDEA Team.
• This topic was modified 2 years, 7 months ago by IDEA Team.
• This topic was modified 2 years, 7 months ago by IDEA Team.
• This topic was modified 2 years, 7 months ago by IDEA Team.
• This topic was modified 2 years, 7 months ago by IDEA Team.
• This topic was modified 2 years, 7 months ago by IDEA Team.
• This topic was modified 2 years, 6 months ago by Mark Jochem.

[Mark Jochem]

Hello!

I’m Mark Jochem, my pronouns are he/his/him. I work for the South Central Library System as the Workforce Development Consultant. I am very excited to be participating in this discussion and learning from colleagues as a member of the IDEA Team and a participant. My interest in learning about, talking about race (and working towards racial equity), comes from my belief that the world becomes a much better place to live when more people are included and structural and interpersonal inequities are eliminated. The challenge for me comes from not knowing enough and not feeling confident enough to speak up and act when moments of injustice arrive. I hope to gain a more solid foundational knowledge from the People Company, and learn from practice discussions and the lived experiences of my colleagues in the library community.

Thanks!
Mark

[IDEA Team]

Hey everyone!
I’m Cole Zrostlik (she/her). I’m a consultant at Winding Rivers Library System and I live in La Crosse. I’m involved in this project because I think joy comes from a place of inclusion and a sense of safety. It’s been a relief for me to learn that the “saying something” is even more important than saying something the wrong way. I’m thrilled to see so many Wisconsin librarians participating in this series!

• This reply was modified 2 years, 6 months ago by IDEA Team.

[Rebecca Schaal]

Hello,
I am Rebecca Schaal with the Community Library in Kenosha County WI. I work as a Clerk in both Circulation and Technical Services. By participating in Talk About Race, I want to learn more ways to help stop racial inequity. Treating others with respect and listening and observing with attention are ideas I can implement into my life right away.

[Mark Jochem]

Hi Rebecca!

Nice to meet you! Thanks for the introduction and letting us know what you’d like to get out of the project.

Take care,
Mark Jochem (IDEA Team member)

[Author]

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