Description
It is well-known that saying the N-word is harmful but addressing it when you overhear someone say it is difficult to say the least. When we are uncomfortable or worried about saying the wrong thing, we are not likely to address it. This can cause harm or set the stage for a reoccurrence, even though it is not your intention.
First learn the facts by reviewing slurs and derogatory terms, then learn the history of them. You may be surprised to learn that some common terms are indeed harmful. Using a behaviour skills training model, this interactive session will give you concrete strategies and practice navigating racial slurs and these difficult conversations in service settings. Leave this session with confidence and armed with information to move you or your organization forward on their anti-racism journey.
“Navigating the N-Word and Racial Slurs” will include discussions about client-caregiver, teacher-student, staff-supervisor, and coworker interactions.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify derogatory terms, racial slurs and describe the origins and meaning of the terms.
- Utilize trauma informed practices when addressing harmful derogatory terms and racial slurs.
- Apply key strategies to facilitate conversations with any child, youth, or adult, including those with developmental or cognitive disabilities.
- Recognize your various intersecting identities and use it to support navigating difficult responses.
- Develop knowledge of how to continue learning and unlearning.
Who Should Attend
This training is applicable to many sectors such as education, developmental services, mental health, child welfare/well-being, healthcare, and any system in which there are interpersonal interactions.
Course Dates & Format
January 21 & 22, 2026
1:00pm – 4:00pm ET
This is a 6-hour training. This course consists of two 3-hour interactive virtual sessions using Zoom.
Instructor: Natasha Shakespeare, M.Ed. (Black Settler, she/her)
Natasha has years of experience in developmental services, healthcare, mental health, and education systems and remains committed to her community, serving on many committees and councils that focus on advocacy and anti-racism. She was Chair of the Black Workers Initiative Council, 2020-2021 and a member of One Vision One Voice Black Community Advisory Committee, from 2020-2023.
Known in her community as an activist, community organizer and advocate, Natasha founded the non-profit organization Parents Against Racism Simcoe County and is also the owner and Lead Equity Specialist of Natasha Shakespeare Equity Consulting.
Natasha has a master’s in education and diplomas in police foundations and behavioural science along with multiple certificates in anti-oppression, anti-racism, Indigenous studies and 2SLGBTQIA+. She notes that her privilege of being formally educated is what people often look to, although she believes her lived experience far outweighs that. You will appreciate the way Natasha can articulate her experiences to increase your understanding and support your journey of learning and unlearning.
Training Fee
Member Fee: $195.00 + $25.35 (HST) = $220.35
Non-Member Fee: $235.00 + $30.55 (HST) = $265.55
Group Registration: Save 20% off individual fees with a group registration of 4 or more participants. Download the group registration form HERE.
Continuing Education Information
Licensing boards and professional organizations will grant Continuing Education credits for attendance at their discretion when participants submit the course outline and certificate.
In-Service
This is available as an in-person or virtual in-service training and customized to suit your needs.
