Northeast Ohio Regional Library System

Northeast Ohio Regional Library System - Event Information

Event Name:
The Myths and Misconceptions of Socioeconomic Status in the U.S.


Competency:
Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion and Patron Awareness

Description:
Classism is considered by some to be the “last socially acceptable form of hatred.” The myths and misconceptions that we hold about members of the poor and working class in the United States are pervasive and come from our beliefs about who is “hardworking” and who is “lazy”. This has huge implications for the way that we evaluate and treat our clients, coworkers, and other key stakeholders in our organizations.

In this session, participants will explore the concepts of socioeconomic status, stratification, and social mobility, with a focus on social and cultural capital in the workplace. Through group dialogue and activities, they will have the opportunity to discuss how access to social and cultural capital can impact social mobility. Finally, participants will engage with practical strategies that may be applied to mitigate the negative impact of socioeconomic status bias on personal and organizational levels.

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore the concepts of socioeconomic status, stratification, and social mobility
  • Learn practical strategies that may be applied to mitigate the negative impact of socioeconomic status bias
Presenter:

Miles Kalainaina (they/them/theirs) is a Senior Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. Their work at the Diversity Center focuses on facilitating programs for professionals. They also greatly enjoy qualitative research and use this skill to analyze climate surveys, focus groups, and other services for clients. Miles’ strength is building rapport and creating spaces where participants can show vulnerability and engage in these important topics.
 

Event Date:
8/12/2026

Event Time:
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Eastern

Location:
Setting: Live Virtual
Online via Zoom
UNITED STATES

Contact Person:

Details:
Who should attend: Anyone wanting to learn about socioeconomic status in the U.S. 
Competencies: Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Patron Awareness

Non-Member Cost:      $40
NEO-RLS Bronze Member Cost:  $24
NEO-RLS Silver Member Cost:   FREE
NEO-RLS Gold Member Cost:    FREE
NEO-RLS Individual Member Cost:  $20

This webinar will not be recorded per the policy of the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio.

This event is supported by the State Library of Ohio with federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
 
It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO-RLS Memberships are pro-rated! Call us today to join.


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8/12/2026