Activity 6: Barriers
Part of Harvest the Power, 2nd Edition
(30 minutes)
Materials
- Handout 2, Gridlocked Systems
- Pens or pencils
- Clock or timer
Preparation
- Copy Handout 2 for all participants.
Description
The concepts presented in this activity may be new to participants. Present the concepts, guide participants’ initial responses, and encourage participants to take time to mull over these ideas, both in and outside the context of the workshop.
Distribute Handout 2 and writing implements. Invite participants to read the handout silently and to note responses or questions in the margins as they read. Allow a few minutes.
Tell the group that they will work with the handout, one section at a time. Explain that these concepts are complex and may require time to digest. Mention that concepts in the handout may run counter to assumptions and practices that participants have engaged in as leaders. Invite participants to notice whether feelings come up such as confusion, defensiveness, or anxiety. Assure the group that many leaders find these ideas challenging.
Read aloud the first section of the handout and the second section, titled “Data.” Invite participants to move into triads and to share their responses to the questions at the end of “Data.” Allow five minutes for this discussion.
Reconvene the group. Spend three minutes sharing highlights and reflections from the small-group discussions.
Read aloud the section titled “Empathy.” Invite participants to move into different triads and to share their responses to that section. Allow five minutes for this discussion.
Reconvene the group. Spend three minutes sharing highlights and reflections from the small-group discussions.
Read aloud the final section, titled “Self.” Invite participants to move into yet another triad and to share their responses to that section. Allow five minutes for this discussion.
Reconvene the group. Spend three minutes sharing highlights and reflections from the small-group discussions.
Conclude this activity by asking, “What thoughts and questions will you take away for further reflection?”