Founder and chief executive officer of Rhon’sWay presents a workshop on Implicit Bias at Lincoln Avenue School

Rhonda Thomas, (pictured) founder and chief executive officer of Rhon’sWay recently gave a presentation entitled “Implicit Bias – check yourself before you wreck yourself” at Lincoln Avenue School during the final District 148 Parent Advisory Committee meeting of the 2018-19 school year.
Rhonda Thomas, (pictured) founder and chief executive officer of Rhon’sWay recently gave a presentation entitled “Implicit Bias – check yourself before you wreck yourself” at Lincoln Avenue School during the final District 148 Parent Advisory Committee meeting of the 2018-19 school year.

Founder and chief executive officer of Rhon’sWay presents a workshop on Implicit Bias at Lincoln Avenue School

Becoming more tolerant and accepting of the cultural, racial and social differences of others can help create equality.

This powerful message was heard by parents, guardians, school administrators, staff and community members during an interactive workshop led by Rhonda Thomas, founder and chief executive officer of Rhon’sWay.

Thomas gave a presentation entitled “Implicit Bias – check yourself before you wreck yourself” on Wednesday, May 15 at Lincoln Avenue School during the final District 148 Parent Advisory Committee meeting of the 2018-19 school year.

Implicit Bias is the new “buzz word” for prejudices - and everyone has them, Ms. Thomas said. The workshop was intended to raise awareness of biases and to help inspire changes in attitudes and behavior.

“Implicit Bias refers to the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions and decisions related to particular characteristics of certain social group members in an unconscious manner,” Thomas stated. “Knowing about the unconscious associations and connections we hold is the first step toward correcting our Implicit Biases.”

Thomas spoke about the associations often made with certain names, cultures and neighborhoods and how they can lead to inappropriate responses.

She encouraged community members to:

• Continue with self-education.

• Have conversations with family, friends, co-workers and neighbors.

• Be mindful of what is spoken.

• Be good examples for children who model the behavior of adults.

Thomas is a keynote speaker, author, educator and wellness consultant. Her workshops are designed to inspire individuals to learn new ways of thinking and living.

District 148 has an early childhood center, six elementary schools and three junior high schools serving approximately 2,280 students and their families in sections of Dolton, Riverdale, Harvey and South Holland

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