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Dismantling Racism Resource Book

Tips for Successful Caucusing

Successful caucusing is often based on having a clarity of purpose. Caucuses
are the place to identify and talk about issues or concerns about racism, but are
not always the appropriate place to solve those issues. When issues or concerns
are raised it is important for the caucus to identify which organizational
structures or processes should address those issues. In the case where the issue
is a result of a lack of organizational structure or process, the caucus will need to
identify how to give direction toward the development of that structure or
process.

One of the goals of caucusing is to create a space for building relationships
between people of color and between white people that will strengthen dismantling
racism work. Successful caucuses will pay attention to creating activities and time
that will support relationship building.

It is critical that there is a clear communication structure that provides a
way for caucuses to communicate with one another. Caucuses do not necessarily
have to come together after meeting separately in order to “report back.”
However, there needs to be a conduit through which appropriate information is

shared. In many organizations, this is one role of the change team.

Confidentiality is crucial to successful caucuses. Confidentiality means that
personal information, stories or concerns that are shared by individuals within a
caucus are not shared outside the caucus. Individual sharing may lead to group
proposals, ideas or plans of action that will be shared through the appropriate
channels. Caucuses must take the time to be clear and reach consensus about what
is being shared and what is not.

In some cases it is important to have an outside facilitator for caucuses.
The power dynamics within organizations often make it difficult for staff, board
members or leaders to facilitate a caucus effectively.

Some organizations have caucuses on a regularly scheduled frequent basis
while others may hold caucuses infrequently or in relation to other events such as
board retreats. The regularity or frequency of caucuses is often based on the
logistics of bringing people together. It is important for an organization to

Dismantling Racism Project 74 Western States Center