Sudbury DEI Commission hears Wayside on ‘‘validate, challenge, request’’ training; discusses mission review, gender-policy follow-up and fall cultural festival

The Town of Sudbury DEI Commission on an evening meeting heard a presentation from Wayside trainers about the ‘‘validate, challenge, request’’ framework for facilitating difficult conversations and discussed next steps including a possible training series for commissioners, select board members and the public.

The presentation came from Aliyah Bannister Batey, vice president of government and external affairs at Wayside, who described VCR as “a structured approach for facilitating productive conversations” and said “courageous conversations is a tool that we can all use.” Tia Gary, a Wayside trainer and consultant, told the commission the framework can be adapted for different ages and settings, including schools.

The commission, led in the meeting by co-chair Janine Taylor, said it would consider beginning the work internally and then expanding training to other town leaders and the broader community. Commissioners and guests discussed modes of delivery…