Samm Wesler is a dance teaching artist and educator. She believes empowering students to take charge of their education and delve into what moves them will lead us to become a society of open-minded, passionate learners and observers.
In this podcast, Samm shares how to lead a diversity and inclusion training in your dance studio, how language can shape the development of LGBTQIA+ teens, and empower you to feel more comfortable and prepared when speaking about these topics with your team.
Key Takeaways
[2:55] How do we start a healthy discussion about being inclusive to dancers who are non-binary?
[3:45] Prepare and be ready. You’ll want to do this work before you need it.
[5:50] Samm is very careful about the types of language she uses around body parts.
[6:34] Samm provides an overview of pronoun usage.
[9:15] Using they/them pronouns takes practice. Become aware and shift your language.
[10:15] What age is appropriate to start practicing these pronouns?
[11:30] How do you ungender your language?
[12:55] Creating a safe space takes time.
[16:35] When it comes to bathrooms, what are the best ways to be inclusive and make everyone feel comfortable?
[19:20] Samm stresses that families are unique and shares her best practices in working with the families in your studio.
[21:25] How can you support your LGBTQIA+ staff members?
[25:05] Need help being more inclusive? Reach out to Samm.
Resources
Connect with Samm on her website & and on LinkedIn
