EDUCATIONAL TRAININGS
bystander to UPSTANDER Training
Join our Chief Operations Officer, Jen Dreiske, in her nationally acclaimed bystander to UPSTANDER intervention training! Throughout this presentation, listeners will become empowered to advocate for others by being equipped with skills to realistically disrupt incidents of discrimination and hate. Jen educates the audience on microaggressions, apathy, and strength, while sharing with us how to use courage and bring victims of bigotry back into belonging.
The Spiritual Tapestry of South Dakota
Bring your curiosity as Jen helps the audience to explore the rich and vibrant spiritual traditions of our community. Audiences will learn about a variety of religious and spiritual traditions, including Oceti Sakowin, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Paganism, and New Age Spirituality. Jen gives the audience a primer on the basics of these religious and spiritual traditions, as well as educates about how to create inclusive environments.
About the Presenter
Jen Dreiske has degrees in Anthropology and World Religious Studies from the University of Minnesota, as well as decades of community advocacy experience. She is certified in the Intercultural Development Inventory and the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory. Jen has over 20 years leading complex conversations and presenting. She is active in the interfaith community through her work with South Dakota Faith in Public Life and being the past president of Mount Zion Synagogue.
Jen can teach on these topics:
Spiritual Tapestry of South Dakota
World Religions in the Workplace and Schools
Intercultural Conflict Inventory
Intercultural Development Inventory
bystander to UPSTANDER
What's Your Purpose?
More Than One Person In The Room
Jen has presented to the following agencies:
Avera McKennan Hospital
Lake Area Tech University of Sioux Falls
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Wells Fargo
Sioux Falls Diversity Conference
Sioux Falls Rotary
SD Corrections Association
Raven Industries
SD DOC Association of State Correctional Admins
Southeast Tech
Spirit of Peace
Sioux Falls School District
Starmark
Yankton Connecting Cultures
Pathways to Inclusive & Equitable Workplaces
Brookings Public Library
Start Up Sioux Falls
South Dakota Education Association
Community Testimonials
“The surprising takeaway that impacted me the most is learning that I need to be compassionate in dealing with people that may be the source of the conflict. Finding a way to de-escalate but find common ground and take the opportunity to understand their behavior."
- Jeni MC
“Bystander to Upstander gave me practical tools to confidently handle confrontational situations—whether on the street, with family, or in everyday places like the grocery store. I now recognize my role as an ally and feel empowered to take action instead of standing by. This course has inspired me to reflect deeply on my values and ask myself: What would I be willing to sacrifice for democracy?”
- Thea Ryan
"I appreciated the session very much. It was well organized and allowed for dialogue among participants. I was very pleased that people felt comfortable speaking up."
- Jane H.
“I highly recommend Bystander to UPSTANDER training conducted by South Dakota Voices for Peace. I feel better equipped with the tools necessary to intervene in situations of harassment or discrimination. Respect is foundational for any well-functioning community and this training helps foster a culture of respect. Participants leave feeling empowered to be proactive allies and champions for a more inclusive society.”
-Joe Batcheller
