Dates:
Mondays, November 9, 16, & 30, 2026
November 2026 Exploring Implicit Bias Training
$100.00
Exploring Implicit Bias is an introductory level bias awareness and anti-racism training for UCC authorized ministers and members in discernment, approved by the Minnesota and Wisconsin Conferences Committees on Ministry. Participants build skills for self-inventory and self-awareness, recognizing bias in themselves and taking accountability for how their biases function and effect others. Those from other Conferences should check with their Committee on Ministry to ensure this training meets your requirements. Mondays, November 9, 16, & 30, 2026 4:00-6:00pm Central Time via Zoom. Facilitated by Rev. Dr. Jia Starr Brown and Anna Stamborski.
About this course:
The Exploring Implicit Bias training for UCC authorized ministers and members in discernment is an introductory exploration of implicit bias. Each learner is invited to explore their implicit bias and consider the role that implicit bias plays in the reality of racism in society. The training teaches practices and habits of self-reflection and awareness, and invites honest, self-critical reflection on social location and implicit bias. November 9, 16 & 30, 2026 4:00-6:00pm Central Time via Zoom and the Damascus Project Learning Network! Facilitated by Rev. Dr. Jia Starr Brown and Anna Stamborski.
Meet your Instructors!
Rev. Dr. Jia Starr Brown
Rev. Dr. Jia Starr Brown is an African American queer pastor, educator, author, and activist with more than two decades of experience advocating for underrepresented communities. With a heart for community and access for all, she stands - and activates - as a truth-teller at the intersection of faith, education, and justice. Conversationally fluent in three languages, she has served as a diversity trainer and community educator, continuing to be a fierce advocate for underrepresented and marginalized communities. Pastor Jia's passion to increase accessibility of affordable academic and enrichment opportunities for youth and families (including her own) led her to design - and facilitate - more than 160 educational programs in the Twin Cities, receiving a Congressional Award for her community-centered leadership in 2015. Equipped with a Master of Divinity from Luther Seminary, an interfaith spiritual direction certification, and a Doctorate of Ministry from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in the field of “Social Transformation”, Rev. Dr. Starr Brown is ordained in The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She is the Founding Pastor of “The Stable” - an online learning space with an emphasis on decolonization. Dr. Jia has authored two social justice facilitator guides for youth and adult leaders in ministry, published by Sparkhouse. She is the designer of the ACTION Project, a three-year antiracism program that was selected to be a part of Minnesota Council of Churches’ Truth and Reparations initiative in 2023, which has now expanded to operate on its own nationwide. For more information, please visit: https://jiastarrbrown.com/ 
Anna Stamborski, M. Div.
Anna Stamborski, M.Div., is a national organizer and trainer with Crossroads Antiracism Organizing and Training, known for her expertise in creating interactive and growth-oriented spaces. She is also a qualitative researcher, JEDI consultant, and former bilingual public educator. Anna's approach is deeply influenced by her background in Restorative Justice, mediation, and her role as an Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) Qualified Administrator, emphasizing high levels of both grace and accountability.