COMBATING BIAS
Conscious bias, also known as explicit bias, is when an individual is very clear his or her feelings and attitudes, and therefore, their behaviors are conducted with intent (Georgetown University National Center for Cultural Competence).
CONSCIOUS BIAS
Unconscious bias, or implicit bias, function outside of individuals’ awareness (Georgetown University National Center for Cultural Competence). This type of bias tends to automatically sink into an individual without that person knowing that these biases are impacting their behaviors or attitudes.
UNCONSCIOUS BIAS
COMBATING BIAS STARTS WITH US!
According to Dr. Renee Navarro from the University of California in San Francisco, “Unconscious biases are social stereotypes about certain groups of people that individuals form outside their own conscious awareness. Everyone holds unconscious beliefs about various social and identity groups, and these biases stem from one’s tendency to organize social worlds by categorizing” which is why it is of the utmost importance that we all make an effort to uncover and understand our own biases, both conscious and unconscious.
1. RECOGNIZE:
Acknowledge our own biases.
It is really hard to acknowledge our own personal bias. The first step is to accept that every single person has biases. It can be as simple as favoring one thing over another such as not liking spicy flavors. It can also be harmful when people treat members of a certain group unfairly. By recognizing it in ourselves we can discern when it is occurring around us.
If you are unaware of some of your specific biases, take an Implicit Association Test or use a similar tool.
2. REFLECT:
Ask yourself, "Why am I thinking this way?"
It is something we unconsciously learned growing up? Did we pick up this bias from the type of music or media we consume?
Who are you thinking about/treating differently and how is it negatively impacting them?
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In order to make change, we need to take action as individuals and make a difference in our community. Although you may have learned how to navigate bias, others might not have had the same opportunity. Use this chance to address biased behavior in a constructive and helpful way. It’s okay to let someone know that they’re using hurtful language that holds power, in fact, it’s important that you do.
One of the best ways for individuals to help fight stereotypes and biases is to talk to those around you.
3. SPEAK OUT!
Start the conversation!
The goal here is to help each other better understand the impact of our words and actions on others. If we work together, we can raise awareness and help improve our communities environment. We all want to feel safe, and sometimes all it takes is one person to speak up for what’s right. You know when you’re witnessing a bias incident. Make sure you’re the one to help out next time.
Support each other, ask how you can help those who have been affected by biased actions
Catalyst, a global nonprofit company that works with some of the largest companies and CEO's to develop healthy, engaging, and effective workplace environments, released this infographic highlighting ways to combat unconscious biases at an individual level. Regardless of whether or not this happens on an organization level or personally, these steps listed below are applicable on any level with every individual.
Everyone is Biased, Combat it with us!
TAKE ACTION. MAKE A DIFFERENCE. BE THE CHANGE.
#STAYLIT
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Sources:
Papillo, K. (n.d.). Two Types of Bias. Retrieved December 5, 2019, from https://nccc.georgetown.edu/bias/module-3/1.php.
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Infographic: How to Combat Unconscious Bias as an Individual. (2015, February 11). Retrieved from https://www.catalyst.org/research/infographic-how-to-combat-unconscious-bias-as-an-individual/.