About the session:
We often talk about racism, but what happens when skin tone influences how people are treated within the same racial or ethnic community? This session takes an honest look at colorism, its historical roots, and the ways it can influence relationships, professional opportunities, leadership, and belonging. Through conversation and reflection, we’ll consider how recognizing colorism can help us build stronger, more inclusive Latino communities and workplaces.

About the speaker:
Dr Luz Garza is the daughter of seasonal migrant farmworkers and grew up in Sunnyside, WA, Nuevo Leon, Mexico and Stephen, MN.  Eager to leave the fields and make a difference in the lives of her family and community, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Washington State University and a Master of Science degree in Applied Psychology from Eastern Washington University. After seven years as an elementary school counselor and Counseling President in the Sunnyside School district, she moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. While teaching part-time as an adjunct professor, running a tutoring business, and teaching Zumba fitness classes, she earned her doctorate in Health Psychology from Northcentral University and became the general education dean at a nursing college. Thrilled to return to her home state in 2023, she is currently the Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Columbia Basin College. 

Register here.