open · Icebreaker, Team Building · 15–25 min · 5-30 people · medium energy

Diversity Welcome

Diversity Welcome is an icebreaker activity that encourages participants to share their experiences with diversity and inclusion. It helps build a foundation of understanding and respect within the group by surfacing different perspectives.

When to use Diversity Welcome

Use this method at the beginning of a workshop or training session focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion to create a safe and welcoming environment for open dialogue.

What it solves

Hesitancy to engage in conversations about diversity due to fear of saying the wrong thing or lack of awareness of different perspectives.

How to run Diversity Welcome, step by step

  1. Facilitator introduces the activity and explains the purpose (2 minutes).
  2. Divide participants into small groups of 3-4 people (2 minutes).
  3. In their small groups, participants share their personal experiences related to diversity and inclusion, focusing on moments of welcome or exclusion (15 minutes).
  4. Bring the whole group back together and invite volunteers to share key insights or reflections from their small group discussions (5 minutes).

Materials needed

  • None

Facilitator tips

  • Emphasize the importance of active listening and respectful communication.
  • Create a safe space where participants feel comfortable sharing their experiences.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants dominating the conversation or sharing insensitive comments. Address this by reminding participants of the ground rules for respectful communication.
  • Participants feeling uncomfortable sharing personal experiences. Allow participants to pass if they don't feel comfortable sharing.

Variations

  • Provide specific prompts or questions to guide the small group discussions.
  • Use a visual aid, such as a picture or quote, to spark conversation.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for smaller group discussions and a shared online whiteboard for sharing reflections.

What it produces

A shared understanding of the diverse experiences and perspectives within the group.

Origin

Adapted from Training for Change — source

Build a session around Diversity Welcome

METODIC places Diversity Welcome inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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