Our everyday language often includes a multitude of common phrases and terms rooted in less savory aspects of history, perpetuating stereotypes, or inadvertently leading to feelings of exclusion. Frequently, we recognize the inappropriateness of certain expressions yet grapple with finding suitable alternatives. This interactive session is designed to delve into the nuances of inclusive language. We will discuss the principles of respectful communication and also provide practical guidance on addressing situations where language might be unintentionally offensive. Our choice of words has the power to either foster unity or create distance. By mastering the art of inclusive language, we can enhance team collaboration and drive greater efficiency in our collective endeavors.
Learning Objectives:
- Define inclusive language and explain its significance in promoting equality and respect in diverse settings.
- Acquire practical skills to use language that is respectful and inclusive of all people, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, ability, age, and other identities.
- Apply inclusive language principles in different scenarios, such as workplace communication and personal interactions.
- Learn strategies to effectively and constructively address instances of non-inclusive language when encountered.
As the Director of Information Technology Operations at Cornell University Library, Debra brings over 20 years of valuable expertise in driving strategic direction across all facets of information technology. With a flair for creativity and dynamism, Debra excels in leading and facilitating intricate workplace and technology processes while nurturing internal talent and fostering effective collaboration for optimal computing environments. She boasts a rich background in facilitation, organizational change and development, team building, and leadership. Debra obtained her Masters of Industrial and Labor Relations degree from Cornell University in 2006 and holds certifications as an XCC Executive Coach, Project Management Professional (PMP, 2008), and an Office of the Secretary of Defense Master Trainer and Master Resiliency Trainer. She serves as the Vice President Programming for the Rochester PMI Chapter. In her personal life, Debra is owner and producer of Burlesque Buffet.
This DEI: Brave Space session is presented by Cayuga Health with support from BorgWarner.
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Recurring Events
Business After Hours
Business After Hours is our premier networking event where you can connect with dozens of Chamber members, community leaders, and potential clients. Network with professionals across the region to exchange contact details, discuss current industry trends, and generate sales leads in an informal setting.
Networking at Noon
Each month, members enjoy lunch with Chamber members while meeting new people, expanding their networking, and learning more about our diverse base of businesses and organizations in Tompkins County. Our goal is to enhance opportunities for our members to share what’s new and exciting in their workplace, discover new customers, and create meaningful connections that lead to lasting business relationships.
Community Conversations
Tompkins Chamber hosts community-specific conversations throughout the county, offering a space for businesses and leaders in our smaller municipalities to convene for hyper-local networking, conversation, mentorship, and advocacy. These events will serve as a forum for the Chamber to engage businesses who rarely attend Ithaca-based events and allow us to better understand and support the unique needs of each community.
L.E.A.R.N.
The L.E.A.R.N. professional development series is designed to give Chamber members access to tools and resources that will help them grow and strengthen their businesses. The series is made up of workshops relevant to the themes of Leadership, Equity, Action, Resilience, and Navigation.
Participants in this series enjoy the following benefits:
- Access to qualified, knowledgeable, and experienced presenters
- Clearly defined course objectives
- Relevant and timely topics
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Training Series
To aid Chamber Members’ desire to cultivate diverse, equitable, and Inclusive (DEI) workplaces, a group of experienced facilitators are partnering with the Tompkins Chamber to host a webinar series. The series has the added benefit of introducing Chamber members to local consultants and facilitators who can assist their respective businesses and organizations to develop strategic DEI plans, conduct follow up workplace trainings, and assist in recruitment/retention strategies for a diverse workforce.
Roundtable Series
Roundtables are free & for Chamber Members only.
Women in Business Roundtable
Open to all women and those who identify as female from within the Chamber’s membership base, this group includes small business owners, nonprofit leaders, managers, and women in all types of roles discussing work-life balance, gender in the workplace, and more through facilitated discussion and activities, or open sharing.
Small Business Roundtable
All Small Businesses with less than 50 employees from within the Chamber’s membership are welcome to join our Small Business Roundtable discussions. A mix of topic based and speaker facilitated discussions are blended with general roundtable sharing, mentorship, and brainstorming to result in connections and deliver information to keep moving area small businesses forward.
CEO Roundtable
CEO level discussion including leaders from the area’s largest employers and institutions, as well as area nonprofit executive directors, meet quarterly to provide important updates and discuss key community and economic concerns.
Featured Annual Events
Economic Summit
The Tompkins Chamber presents key local issues impacting local businesses and developers, policy issues impacting the business community, and local insights from participants in a national economic outlook survey. Partnering with Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED), the event includes important updates about our economy, workforce, upcoming projects, and strategies to move forward and achieve a sustainable economic recovery.
Annual Dinner & Awards
One of the premier business community events of the year, the Annual Meeting highlights the Chamber community and previews the goals and initiatives for the coming year. Come and celebrate the success of our business community and economic development with hundreds of local leaders and elected officials! Join us as we raise a glass to the companies, not-for-profits, and volunteers who partner with us to help our community thrive.
Golf Tournament
This day on the green combines top-notch golf with valuable networking and advertising opportunities. Held at one of the County’s finest and professionally-rated golf courses. Staggered start golf tournament with several prizes, including skins. Lunch and beverages provided.
Great Big Chamber Auction
See and be seen by the region’s top business executives and small business owners. The Great Big Chamber Thank You & Auction holds tremendous value to our sponsors, donors, and attendees as it is one of our most highly publicized and attended events. The Great Big Chamber Auction portion helps underwrite the events and programs that support our Chamber members. Traditional silent and live auction, networking, and nonprofit recognition awards.