Presented by Alex Bender

What does it take to speak up for someone—and help others understand why it matters?

In this presentation, I explored advocacy in everyday life, from conversations around the dinner table to leadership, accessibility, and public action. At the heart of the discussion was the relationship between the person or cause we advocate for, the advocate, and the audience with the power to make a difference.

We examined how empathy and influence shape those relationships, how different perspectives affect our understanding, and what can happen when a conversation triggers defensiveness.

Topics covered:

• The dynamics of advocacy: Understanding whose needs are at stake and who can influence the outcome.
• Four perspectives: Considering personal experience, observable behavior, shared culture, and the systems surrounding a situation.
• The “Why Trap”: Recognizing how questions can invite people to justify or defend themselves, even when that isn’t the speaker’s intention.
• Tools for connection: Using listening, mirroring, validation, and empathy to build understanding.
• The risks of silence and speaking up: Considering the consequences of each choice and the possibility for change.

Presentation resources:

Download the PowerPoint to revisit the models, questions, and communication tools from the session.

As you review the slides, consider:
Where could your voice make a difference?
Whose perspective do you need to understand?
What might help you begin that conversation?