Panel: The Role of Courageous Conversations in Promoting Inclusion, Equity, and Psychological Safety

Presentation Description / Summary: Creating an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace requires more than policies, it requires courageous conversations. These are the often uncomfortable, yet necessary dialogues that confront power dynamics, explore personal experiences, and challenge systemic inequalities. When approached with care and authenticity, courageous conversations can foster psychological safety, strengthen team culture, and create a deeper sense of belonging for all.

In this 90-minute facilitated panel discussion, ACVIM diplomats from diverse professional and personal backgrounds will share real-world experiences of engaging in courageous conversations within their clinical and educational environments. Topics may include navigating difficult conversations around bias, exclusionary behaviours, faith-based accommodations, microaggressions, and structural inequities in the workplace.

Audience participation will be encouraged throughout, including scenario-based discussions to explore how these conversations can be initiated and sustained in respectful and productive ways.