Link to Recording: Watch Here
Link to Handouts: On the Threshold of Change Report, Person-Centered Language, Powerpoint
Join us for a transformative webinar that delves into the profound impacts of labels and language on the lives of foster youth. Language shapes our perceptions and experiences, and for foster youth, the labels used to describe them can have significant consequences on their identity, self-esteem, and future opportunities.
This interactive webinar will explore:
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Understanding Labels: An examination of common labels and terms used in the foster care system and their historical and contemporary connotations.
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The Power of Language: How language influences public perception, policy-making, and the personal development of foster youth.
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Personal Narratives: Real-life stories from a lived experience panel of former foster youth, who will share their journeys and the impact that labels and language had on their lives.
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Strategies for Change: Practical tools and strategies for stakeholders, including social workers, educators, and community members, to use empowering and respectful language when working with foster youth.
Lived Experience Panel:
Hear directly from those who have navigated the foster care system. Our panel of former foster youth will provide invaluable insights into the real-world implications of the words and labels often used to describe them. Their stories of resilience, challenges, and triumphs will underscore the importance of mindful language and offer perspectives on how we can all contribute to more supportive and empowering environments.
Presenter:
Kristina Tanner has been a dedicated advocate for youth impacted by the child welfare system since 2015. Her journey began as a youth volunteer, where she used public speaking to raise awareness and educate others about child welfare issues. From there, Kristina quickly took on leadership roles across various organizations, serving as a facilitator, policy and legislation committee member, youth mentor, member of the Youth Training Project, curriculum developer, Youth Commissioner, and Training Committee member.
Kristina's impact extends to the national level, where she has worked as an outreach and development intern for the National Foster Youth Initiative. Currently, as the Statewide Policy Coordinator for California Youth Connection, she has demonstrated her skills in project management by leading policy initiatives, developing educational materials, and facilitating partnerships to empower both youth and stakeholders.
Kristina's commitment to youth advocacy and her ability to drive change have made her a key voice in shaping policies that support young people in California’s child welfare system. With leadership roles and policy influence at the local, state, and national levels, she aspires to make a positive impact and create a better system for future generations of foster youth.