The Game

Facilitator Notes• It might seem strange to talk with a vulnerable population about privilege, but this

is an important discussion and part of our nation’s cultural psyche. Being more aware of racial nuances and dynamics of power may help clients obtain and retain vital job opportunities. This is also a great opportunity to empower your clients by highlighting their own inherent strengths and abilities.

• With so many immediate needs, many new arrivals might not be able to fully absorb the concept. It's still important for us to lay the groundwork for larger conversations down the road.

• But isn’t it better to ignore racial differences and encourage refugees to be color-blind? Color-blindness is an idealistic myth and starting with this premise can lead to problematic racialized attitudes later down the road.

• As new immigrants from various backgrounds, they are building (and breaking) new stereotypes everyday. By discussing these issues in a safe space, we are empowering our clients to better navigate their new communities.

Facilitator Notes• This exercise is meant to be a conversation starter for much larger

discussions.

• Another helpful starting point might be to review and discuss “Self Identification” forms that are commonly included in new hire paperwork.

• People will probably ask tough questions. As a facilitator, it’s okay if you don’t know all the answers. It might be helpful to come up with some brief historical context to have on hand, so you feel more confident and prepared for complicated questions.

• Many refugees may have come from relatively privileged backgrounds, but it will often be refugees who are discriminated against – this can be part of the conversation as well.

Facilitator Notes: Scenarios

• It might be helpful to review potential workplace scenarios in class together. Feel free to make up your own, but here is one example:

– You work with very nice people and want to continue in the job. The company hires mostly people who speak Spanish, including your supervisor. You speak enough English to communicate, but your supervisor only speaks Spanish – even to you. Your colleagues try to help you and they teach you a few words. But, you think your supervisor should speak to you in English. Who can you talk to about this and what can you say?