The Reality Check Conference is designed to encourage, empower, and educate leaders across western North Carolina and surrounding areas on the cultural diversity challenges within our community.

This conference will continue the conversation around building a better community and decreasing the gaps in disparities, education, and other social factors that play into the cultural divide of the community and city at large. Participants will also learn about local initiatives and key players who are active and directly involved in our community.

Two national powerhouse speakers, Tim Wise and Jane Elliott, will speak at the conference, which takes place Friday, June 29 at A-B Tech. Participants will also hear from several local speakers who will have specific topics to engage the audience.

Conference Objectives

Provide further education and knowledge about the historical trauma of African Americans and people of color in Asheville and greater western North Carolina with a focus on where we’ve been, where we are presently, and what the future holds.

Discuss the impact of offensive intention created by privilege and power in a thriving, profitable community

Gain a better understanding of ways to engage African Americans and people of color with recognition, understanding (avoiding checking the box and “tokenizing” individuals), and empathy as we move forward to create a better community and professional environment with the tools needed to work toward success

The Reality Check Conference takes place Friday, June 29, 2018 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at A-B Tech Community College, 340 Victoria Rd. in Asheville. Register before June 22 and the cost to attend is $80; after June 23 the cost is $95 per person. For more information, please call (828) 254-1921 or visit www.asheville.cc.nc.us