Navigating Difficult Conversations

As development professionals, we’re no strangers to having challenging, sensitive conversations­—with donors, organizational leaders, board members, co-workers, and others. The events of recent years have brought increased attention to a host of complex issues surrounding race and racism, inequality, reproductive rights, politics, and more. These articles offer useful tips on navigating conversations that veer into difficult topics. 

Three Tips for Navigating Difficult Discussions with Donors

"Choosing our own comfort over hard conversations is the epitome of privilege, and it corrodes trust and moves us away from meaningful and lasting change.” The words of renowned author and researcher Brene Brown set the stage for this helpful article that offers practical tips on how to handle difficult conversations in a world filled with hot-button issues.

How to Stay in Conversations about Racism

In this article, physician-educator Joel T. Katz, MD, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital writes about how to respectfully talk about racism with others. The piece is one of many thought-provoking articles that make up Standing Tall for Justice, the Brigham Development Office’s award-winning magazine focused on equity and inclusion in healthcare.

The Power of Difficult Conversations

In this inspiring TED talk, scientist TaraMarcink, PhD, explores what happens when we discard labels, leave our echo chambers, and see each other as human beings.