What is a Safe Zone Conversation (SZC)?

A Safe Zone Conversation (SZC) is defined as dialogue amongst a group of people purposely engineered to discuss human topics that can be deemed sensitive, uncomfortable, or complex in nature. It is an environment of mutual respect and inclusivity, a brave place for people to speak their minds. All comments and questions are welcomed. No judgments.

What topics are discussed during a SZC?

Safe Zone Conversations are designed to discuss racism, LGBTQIA+, and LatinX matters.

How are SZC hosted?

In order to create the brave space needed to host these open conversations and allow for authentic, honest dialogue, all Safe Zone Conversations are held via Zoom. This allows each participant to feel safe in their own personal space, leading to an open discussion without feeling judged.

Why would my state/agency benefit from hosting/leading a Safe Zone Conversation?

The Safe Zone Conversation platform promotes safe and purposeful conversation that might otherwise not take place in the workplace because people are uncertain of how to start the conversation, fearful of offending others or how they might respond, uncomfortable talking about the topic, or simply don't understand what needs to be discussed or the importance of having the conversation.


What should I know as a Safe Zone Facilitator?

  • Be prepared to provide guidance on the specific topics being discussed during the SZC. Being an expert in DEI topics is not expected; however, there will be a certain amount of knowledge and experience that will be required for each facilitator to have in order to contribute and facilitate the SZC discussions.
  • Facilitators must be comfortable leading the group, sharing experiences, and answering challenging questions and uncovering underlining messages.
  • Facilitators have to remain level-headed and non-confrontational throughout the entire SZC process.
  • Facilitators are generally strong communicators, emotionally intelligent and able to understand the importance of listening and responding to what is really being communicated.
  • Facilitators should be leaders in their field and respected within the respective Association/profession.


What is the time commitment for a Safe Zone Facilitator?

  • This varies and depends on the number of the Safe Zone participants. Typically, the facilitator time frame can go from a minimum of two hours to a maximum of four hours.
  • This does not include the 30-minute pre and 30-minute post discussions for the facilitation team/leaders.


Who makes up your facilitation team?

There are several SZC Facilitator roles in each discussion. Below is a breakdown of each facilitator’s role. All SZC Facilitators are expected to share their authentic story.

  • Lead SZC Facilitator  —  This is the main facilitator of the team for the SZC discussion.
  • SZC Note-Taker Facilitator — This is the facilitator of the team for the SZC discussion that takes notes, identifies themes discussed during the SZC and clarifies important terms, concepts and items relevant to the discussion.
  • SZC Breakout Room Facilitators — These are the facilitators who lead the small group discussions.


What is the time commitment to be trained as a Safe Zone Facilitator and what is required?

Trainings will take place via Zoom during the month of February 2022, and will be spread out over the month. The training will take between 15-18 hours:

  • Week One:
    Background and introduction of a SZC (2hrs)
    Roles of a facilitator and what you should know (2hrs)
  • Week Two:
    Safe Zone Conversation Shadowing (4hrs)
  • Week Three:
    Highlights, challenges and successes, questions (2hrs)
    Facilitator Script Discussion: Planning for your SZCs (2hrs)
  • Week Four:
    Safe Zone Conversation Shadowing (Optional) (4hrs)
    Pre and Post Safe Zone Conversation meetings (1hr)


What is next?

Remember the SZC is just the beginning of an individual’s or agency’s journey in the DEI process. The discussion or conversation is just the first step (bringing awareness to individuals) and most important step when navigating diversity, equity and inclusion. For an agency or Association, the next step (organizational action) would be to explore where they are in the DEI process and evaluate if you are capable and ready to lead these discussions.