WDN Connect 2022 is filled with dynamic programming. Members are going to have a chance to connect, learn and act. The Wake Up: Michelle MiJung Kim and Leena Barakat in Conversation is a great example of the type of exciting content we have planned. 

Michelle is a highly respected DEI specialist and the CEO & Founder of Awaken. She’s devoted countless hours to Asian American activism, and she cogently connects anti-Asian hate crimes to white supremacy. Read her article, “On Anti-Asian Hate Crimes: Who Is Our Real Enemy?” You will be inspired by her intelligence and conviction. She has so much to share and teach us and you don’t need to wait till the conference to learn more. Go to her Instagram page for more resources around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. 

Everyone who attends WDN Connect 2022 will receive a complimentary, signed copy of her book The Wake Up which the Portland Book Review describes as “a powerful book that provides practical tips about showing up as our better selves in the fight for justice and equity. Kim’s writing embodies years of experience in handling difficult conversations about white supremacy culture, as she exposes truths in a way that activates those with privilege and power to be a part of the solution.” 

As WDN continues on our journey to become a multigenerational, multiracial, feminist network, her thoughts and calls to action are all the more compelling for our community. 

At the conference Leena and Michelle’s conversation will provide the following takeaways:

• Connecting to your deeper “why”
  • More deeply grounding yourself in your “why” to show up for equity and justice. You will clearly be able to explain why our liberation is intrinsically bound to one another.
• Understanding what it means to be a true ally
  • Tangible tools and action steps to move beyond performative allyship to true solidarity with marginalized communities. There will be some examples of allyship on the interpersonal level and then within the field of philanthropy more broadly.
• Moving toward shared accountability at home, work, and within society
  • Learning how to interrupt everyday interpersonal harm, like microaggressions 
  • How to ground yourself when you may be struggling to stay in alignment with your values

This will be a conversation that will stay with you for a long time. One of many memorable moments we have planned for you at WDN Connect 2022. If you have not already RSVP’ed please do so. We can not wait to be in community and in conversation.