In a time when fear, name-calling, and tribalism dominate our public discourse, it's easy to feel disconnected. Our country is facing a crisis of communication, where "social splatter" paints a picture of division rather than unity. Leaders and pundits talk past one another, neighbors are labeled as "the other," and the ties that bind us seem to fray a little more each day. Yet, amidst this fragmentation, there is a growing need—and a profound opportunity—to build bridges across our differences, especially within our schools and educational communities.
To survive and thrive, we must learn to build bridges across our differences, beginning with those who guide and nurture the next generation—our educators.
● Let’s reclaim our shared stories as educators.
● Let’s name the reactive habits that keep us apart in our schools and classrooms.
● Let’s collaborate as education professionals in taking steps that will bring us together.
● Let’s come together to build a community where every educator and student can bring their best and thrive.
Second Circle #1 with our Uncle John Fong
Thursday, Sept 19, 6:30 - 8:00 pm PT | 3:30 - 5:00 pm HT
Together, as educators, we can make a difference. We invite you to a gathering that will address these topics, Face to Face.
The Second Circle is more than just an event; it's a call to action for educators. It’s a space where we, as education professionals, can come together to reclaim our shared stories, identify the reactive habits that drive us apart, and take collective steps toward building a community where everyone—educators, students, and staff—can bring their best selves and thrive. We believe that by joining together face to face, we can begin to mend the social fabric that has been torn by misunderstanding and fear, starting within our educational environments.
Our gatherings will be facilitated by expert practitioners who have dedicated their lives to this work. Among them is Kevin Kahakula’akea John Fong (he/they/o’ia), a nationally recognized leader in transformative justice, leadership development, and community healing. Kevin is the founder of the Kahakulei Institute, an organization committed to weaving people and possibilities to cultivate communities of belonging.
From the outset of his career, Kevin has sought to shift the narratives and patterns that limit our potential and fragment our communities. His work, whether on a personal, interpersonal, or organizational level, promotes practices that foster greater compassion, efficacy, and well-being. Through the Kahakulei Institute, Kevin has assembled a team of bold leaders who work tirelessly to build beloved communities that resist the existential threats facing people across the globe.
Kevin’s expertise as a cultural translator, facilitator, and speaker has earned him international respect. His approach, grounded in the belief that truth, when coupled with accountability, can lead to healing and reconciliation, has inspired countless individuals and communities to seek transformative justice. Kevin's journey has been shaped by the teachings of renowned figures such as Grace Lee Boggs, Aunty Puanani Burgess, and Maestro Jerry Tello, among others. His work is informed by a deep understanding of East Asian philosophies and a commitment to fostering environments where every voice is heard and valued.
As we navigate these challenging times, the need for spaces like The Second Circle has never been greater. We invite educators and education professionals to join us in this powerful community gathering, where together, we can make a difference. Let’s reclaim our shared humanity, challenge the forces that seek to divide us, and collaborate to create a world where everyone can thrive.
About Kevin John Fong: Kevin is a featured host on the CNBC News series, Changing the Narrative, and the author of The Five Elements: An East Asian Approach to Achieve Organizational Health, Professional Growth, and Personal Well-Being. Residing in the San Francisco Bay Area, the traditional land of the Ohlone People, Kevin continues to inspire and lead efforts towards building communities of belonging.