Managing Power Dynamics in Coalitions

Topics: An analysis of power in relationships and communities and how to leverage that power to benefit groups and advance health equity.

Description: Confronting the impact of power and privilege in public health requires an honest look at who benefits from the status quo, and whose voices continually go unheard. By exploring how the power dynamics play out in our coalition work, we will be able to create strategies to bring power dynamics to the surface and address them. For effective coalition work, all members should be able to define issues, create strategies, make decisions, and implement solutions. However, different levels of expertise, staffing, and funding could be a source of tension and impact who drives the agenda. Learn strategies to advocate effectively, leverage power in numbers, and create space to build the potential of community.

Trainers: Lauren Bard and Winston Daley, Health Resources in Action

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to:

1. Define power and explore the role of power in your coalition work.
2. Identify ways in which power influences their relationships and experiences within the communities you serve.
3. Identify at least two strategies for leveraging their power positively in your community work.

MA DPH Coalition Criteria Addressed:

1. Membership that is reflective of the community.
2. Consistency with MA DPH’s goals and priorities.
3. Participation from key stakeholders (individuals and organizations that have a vested stake or interest in a program or policy initiative, e.g., it will impact them directly).

Register!