-
Strategies for Leaders to Use an Inclusion Lens in Crisis Management
It is imperative during this global crisis that we work TOGETHER to move forward. In these unprecedented times, as leaders are in crisis management mode, making urgent decisions that have significant impact on employees and those they serve, it’s essential to ensure that everyone is included in plans to rise above this pandemic. Working together means using an Equity & Inclusion Lens as we make decisions, plan programs, and develop services to live our lives amidst the hidden threats of an unseen virus. I’ll be sharing proven and helpful tactics for using an Inclusion Lens in my upcoming webinar, “Strategies to Use an Inclusion Lens in Crisis Management,”…
-
Diversity & Inclusion Training: A Long Road Filled with Obstacles
You’ve often heard me say that when it comes to diversity, equity & inclusion, I’m in it for the long haul. It’s so true a statement that I wrote a book with that very same title. Why? Because it’s a goal that cannot be accomplished during one employee training session. Diversity, equity & inclusion training can be tough work. But it’s urgently needed – now more than ever before, as our world faces unprecedented times. It’s vital for organizational success and for future generations. We need to press on with our efforts – and be aware of (and avoid) the potholes and roadblocks along our way. “We…
-
Making the Case for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
As change agents, sometimes we become so focused on implementing DEI practices in organizations, that we may neglect to highlight the positive benefits inclusion offers. And there are many! Before and during diversity, equity and inclusion training, making note of the positive benefits linking diversity and positive organizational performance can be a decisive incentive for folks to keep on going when the going gets tough! We all know our jobs as change agents aren’t easy. But when presented with research linking diversity with profitability and other proven benefits, it can be the impetus an organization needs to make a firm commitment to infuse DEI at every level. “Inclusion is…
-
Design & Facilitation 101: Exploring White Privilege
Did you ever notice how those in privileged groups tend to focus on their ‘good intent’ rather than on the negative impact of their behavior when interacting with members of marginalized groups? Very often, in our privileged identities we tend to focus on how much progress we’ve made – rather than how much more still needs to be done! I’m not saying it’s a bad thing to acknowledge the good work that has already been accomplished – not at all. However, if we focus solely on past achievements, we overlook the daily indignities those in marginalized groups continue to face. Effective design and facilitation involves learning how to engage others…
-
Renew the Spark: Ignite Change at Your Organization
“But It’s Always Been Done This Way…” Mandates outline policies for diversity, equity and inclusion in many organizations, but too many leaders are less than enthusiastic about implementing any meaningful plans. There’s a general feeling of: “Y’all go over there and just do it, but don’t get us involved.” Can you relate? You develop a plan to implement inclusion for all employees and you’re excited about the opportunity. Then you hit the brick wall. The brick wall with the sign posted: “We’ve Always Done It This Way.” I bet you’ve run smack into that wall many times, right? But there are detours around that wall, and with some committed…
-
Our Top 5 Posts on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion … and more!
Here are 5 of our most popular posts that you may find helpful – all in one quick go-to reference. Want to gain access to our brand new and ever-growing comprehensive Knowledge Base packed with info on all the topics that matter most to you? Click here to join free! Without further ado, here’s a fast summary of the 5 top posts. To read more, just click the links… 1) When TMI Happens at a Training on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion It happens sometimes. Your organization is committed to inclusion. Training sessions offer participants the opportunity to reflect, discuss and comment on exclusion and discrimination within the organization.…
-
Answers to 3 of Your Most Popular Questions on Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Training
Discussions on equity, diversity, and inclusion can be lively, emotional – and sometimes challenging. Sessions can give rise to a multitude of varying questions and difficult situations. In our Q&A sessions, I am often asked the same questions regarding situations that generate a feeling of unease and hesitancy during workshops. By being prepared, we can better assist our workshop participants. During these challenging situations, stand strong. Don’t judge. Be empathetic. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” When a…
-
I Want to Speak Up at Work…But I Fear Retaliation
How many times I have heard that comment! Lots of Things Can Happen When Inclusion Training Starts I’ve worked for decades as an organizational change consultant, helping organizations to establish socially just environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Some days, my work feels almost like the dog-chasing-its-tail drama: Working to resolve one exclusionary situation can bring to life the ugly head of another issue. Revenge and retaliation always perpetuate the cycle of anger, fear and violence. -Coretta Scott King Once an organization steps up and begins inclusion training, many things can happen. While some earnestly attempt to overcome their exclusionary practices, others seem hell-bent on continuing their…
-
Bosses and Staff Together At Inclusion Sessions: Yes or No?
For many employees, honest discussion on many topics is inhibited when supervisors and bosses are present. Discussing discrimination and exclusion in the workplace can prove even more challenging when bosses – who have the power to hire and fire – are themselves the ones needing the most training on inclusion practices. So what’s the correct way to hold sessions? Include supervisors and not have full employee input? Or leave the bosses out even though you recognize they’re in need of discrimination and exclusion training as well? I prefer to include supervision and staff together. Here’s why. Differing Opinions on the Same Organizational Goal In a particular organization I worked with,…
-
Feeling Excluded In Your Inclusion Efforts?
“Help! I feel like I’m the only one at my organization striving for equity and inclusion. I’m frustrated and drained.” Can you relate to those feelings of weariness? I know you can! I’ve heard similar statements repeated numerous times, and this topic popped up again in one of my recent Q&A sessions. You’ve got a handle around equity and inclusion, and you keep getting more requests to do diversity trainings…but it’s really not your job. The problem is that no one else is stepping up to the plate and you feel stranded in your efforts. Fortunately, there are ways to take the pressure off you while at the same time,…
