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VCU Commons Theater
907 Floyd Ave.
Matthew Freeman
Author / “Overcoming Bias”
Co-Founder and Lead Consultant / TMI Consulting, Inc
Topic: Can’t we all just get along?: The disintegration of public discourse and what to do about it
Nazis in the streets, violent protests, political polarization - our civic conversations are becoming more problematic and less constructive. Why is this happening, and more importantly, what can any of us do? This talk will explore what’s needed to combat racism and xenophobia, as well as generate discussion about what role marketing, branding, and advertising can have in creating a more inclusive country.
Bio:
Matthew’s passion for racial reconciliation and social justice has led him across the United States and overseas, helping people connect across difference and begin to address the challenges that divide them.
Matthew believes the solutions to our most intractable problems, like social division and poverty, require bold leadership willing to try risky and innovative solutions. When given the opportunity, Matthew can help groups find the courage to tackle their most pernicious problems and move toward collaboration, mutual understanding, and action.
As TMI’s Principal Consultant, Matthew oversees the company’s facilitation and training designs, leads its research teams, and keeps his colleagues guessing what TMI’s resident philosopher is up to. In addition to facilitating dialogue in corporate, educational, and community settings, Matthew has contributed articles to such publications as The International Journal of Public Participation and National Civic Review and has co-authored a book, Overcoming Bias: Building Authentic Relationships Across Differences, to be published by Berrett-Koehler Publishers.