Outsmarting Bias
Understanding Unconscious Prejudices Toward Asian Communities
Interactive training on unconscious biases toward Asian communities.
This program is intended for employers: organizations, public or parapublic institutions, and businesses.
Approach
Participatory workshops delivered virtually, featuring guided activities, small-group discussions, and individual reflection. This is not a webinar—participants are expected to actively engage.
Languages
Bilingual, alternating between French and English.
Training Objectives
• Raise awareness among employees about forms of racism and unconscious bias toward Asian communities
• Understand the historical, social, and professional impacts of these stereotypes
• Provide practical tools to foster inclusion in the workplace
Summary of Key benefits
• Tailored, engaging, and community-centered training
• A safe and reflective discussion space
• Development of interpersonal relationships and a shared language around EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) issues
General audience format
A participatory workshop based on the documentary A COMME ASIATIQUE, followed by facilitated discussions.
An introductory space to explore issues of anti-Asian racism, stereotypes, and implicit bias.
• Number of participants: up to 15 per session
• Duration: 90 minutes per session
• Content: same structure for each session (with different participants)
Structure
Module 1: Historical Context & Introduction to Unconscious Bias
• Overview of the history of Asian communities in Canada
• Definition of implicit bias and workplace examples
• Interactive activity (quiz/word cloud)
Module 2: Reflective Viewing of the Documentary “A COMME ASIATIQUE”
• Guided analysis of documentary excerpts (themes: microaggressions, stereotypes, identity, exclusion)
• Small-group discussions and viewing journal
• Integration of six thematic sheets (discrimination, identity whitening, systemic racism)
Module 3: Reflection and Commitment — Deconstructing Bias and Taking Action
• Guided introspection exercise
• Concrete best practices (recruitment, communication, leadership)
• Personal or collective commitment to take action in the following weeks
Relational format
A safe and ongoing space to collectively explore unconscious bias, systemic racism, and concrete workplace actions. Participants learn from one another over time, fostering trust and shared accountability.
• Number of participants: maximum 10
• Frequency: 2 sessions per month
• Duration: 90 minutes per session
• Program length: 3 months
Includes:
• Ongoing facilitation and personalized support
• Progressive adaptation of content based on group dynamics
• Journals, introspective activities, and in-depth discussions
• Individual or group follow-up (if desired)
Structure
Each session has a different theme inspired by the documentary “A COMME ASIATIQUE” and includes:
• Live facilitation
• Content adapted to group progression
• Reflection journal and unique activities
• Logistical coordination and support
• Follow-up tools and post-session resources
Six proposed themes:
1. Understanding anti-Asian racism and its historical roots
2. Implicit bias, stereotypes, and microaggressions
3. Identity, cultural whitening, and sense of belonging
4. Silence and barriers to speaking out
5. Racism in the workplace: systemic forms and solutions
6. Taking action: creating inclusive and supportive environments