Program Overview: Examine diversity in the fullest sense of the word, including not only race and ethnicity, but also gender, sexual orientation, age, lifestyle and abilities. Recognition of the advantages some have and the history of exclusion that some have experienced are touched upon in a way that helps people move forward together. Additionally, participants will explore how respectful communication can address difficult comments from others that might be considered racist, sexist, ageist, homophobic or in other ways derogatory to others. All of this is done in a safe and respectful learning environment. Participants learn to acknowledge their cultural differences and, more importantly, to learn how to find common ground and gain the needed communication skills to move forward. Building upon their shared humanity enables participants to create more effective teams in a respectful, inclusive environment.