Code Switching: Bringing Your True Self to Every Conversation
Keynote | Workshop | Virtual
“Why you talking white?”
Chris Molina has heard this question, or some variation, many times in his life. Of Puerto Rican and Trinidadian descent, Chris grew up in predominantly African American and Latinx communities, comfortably interacting in each. What he found as an adult, in the Marines and in college, was that he knew how to effortlessly “speak” in majority-White organizations. He was fluent in each, without even realizing it.
He could code switch seamlessly.
This signature program is designed to equip students of color and white classmates, staff, and faculty with the tools to understand Code Switching, it’s inherent benefits and harms. More than anything, Chris wants attendees to know they can talk openly, and genuinely, in all social situations without putting the comfort of others before their own.
He wants you to live authentically.
Audience members will…
Understand the origins and realities of Code Switching in America
Consider how we can hurt or uplift others w/ the words we use
Evaluate whether code switching is “okay” and its benefits and harms
Challenge campus and organizational leaders to transform community culture to be more accepting of other dialects.
Ideal Audiences
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Programming
Identity Development
TRIO