Organizations have a responsibility to ensure that people who come there to work, worship, or volunteer won’t experience harm.

Creating a safe space is easier said than done. People bring to their organizations their own personal and communal trauma, and others may bring assumptions and behaviors that cause further hurt and offense. Kimberly Brazwell’s concept of the “nine asks” lays out the practical expectations we should bring to communal engagement and explains how healing from trauma is the responsibility of communities, not simply individuals.

Among the nine asks are: 

• Be honest and vulnerable 
• Respect boundaries 
• Offer no judgment 
• Maintain confidentiality 
• Respect the process of learning the right language 
• Take the time to listen first 

With Brazwell’s explanation of these principles—supported by stories and examples from the myriad teams she has coached—your church, nonprofit, or business will be well equipped to create a culture that truly supports and empowers people to be their best, healthiest selves.