Course Description

The WEA Human and Civil Rights (HCR) Leadership Summit is a transformative leadership development experience rooted in a “grow-your-own” philosophy. Designed to empower emerging BIPOC leaders and white allies within WEA, the summit equips participants to lead with courage and commitment in advancing racial, social, and economic justice across schools, communities, and the union. Through interactive sessions and collaborative learning, attendees will explore effective strategies to foster a resilient culture of equity and inclusion. By harnessing the collective power of organizing and principled leadership, the summit inspires individuals to take meaningful action to dismantle institutional racism and create lasting change.

Course Objectives

Examine WEA’s Vision of Leadership

Deepen understanding of WEA’s definition of leadership and how it aligns with principles of equity, inclusion, and collective empowerment.

Challenge Dominant Leadership Paradigms

Critically analyze and disrupt traditional, hierarchical models of leadership by exploring more inclusive and transformative approaches.

Build Familiarity with the NEA Leadership Competency Framework

Introduce participants to the NEA Leadership Competency Framework and provide guidance on how to apply it for personal and professional growth.

Explore Leadership Development Through a Race-Intelligent Lens

Investigate how organizational leadership structures can evolve by centering race equity and developing race-conscious leadership practices.

Provide Tools for Leadership Growth

Share practical tools, resources, and strategies to support participants’ ongoing leadership development and impact within WEA and their communities.

Identify a Personal Leadership Focus Area

Support participants in identifying at least one key leadership skill or competency to cultivate during the summit and continue developing beyond the training.