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Managing Hiring and Layoffs? Use an Equity Lens
Many businesses and organizations are announcing furloughs and layoffs as a result of the economic upheavals caused by the pandemic. As America faces a profound time of racial reckoning while in the midst of a pandemic, now is precisely the right time to focus our Equity Lens intently on hiring and firing practices. It’s no time for excuses. I’ve heard many say: “Given the pandemic, we don’t have time to look into hiring practices.” That’s just using a laziness lens. As Diana Noriega, Assistant Executive Director of Anti-Racism and Equity at Good Shepherd Services stated on my recent radio show: “Crisis accelerates the process of the work. People get comfortable…
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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…
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Diversity Workshops: Foundations for Meaningful Change or Just Fluff?
“I hate diversity workshops. Real change comes from having enough comfort to be really honest and say something very uncomfortable.” – Michelle Obama This powerful quote by Michelle Obama illustrates that we needn’t wait for mandatory training or once-a-year workshops to start tough conversations around diversity and inclusion in our organizations. Indeed, real change is sparked when we are comfortable enough to get uncomfortable to engage in honest dialogue. But starting the conversation is just the beginning… Diversity Workshops – A Foundation for Change For meaningful, sustainable change, delving into how we came to be a society of exclusion instead of inclusion provides a relevant base upon which…
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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…
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5 Easy Tips & Tools for Facilitators
As a facilitator training on issues of diversity, equity and inclusion, you’ve got a lot on your plate. I know! Your goal is to effectively design and facilitate workshops to deepen the capacity of participants to: Recognize the full breadth of differences at the organization. Identify the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion in all their areas of responsibility. Understand how the dynamics of privilege and marginalization impact folks in their daily lives. Address exclusionary behaviors and microaggressions effectively. Use an Inclusion Lens to design and revise programs, policies, systems and procedures that aim to serve all. That’s a big responsibility! To help you make your next DEI workshop…
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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…
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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…
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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.…
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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,…
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Train the Trainer: Continuing Education is Key
As a facilitator, your role is very different from that of a teacher or educator. How so? Instead of providing information or giving your opinion, you’ll focus on asking lots of questions that help members of the group learn and deepen understanding from sharing their reflections, feelings and experiences. You may: Relate to what someone has shared Offer a bit about yourself to make a connection Encourage interaction and productive dialogue in the group Most importantly, the emphasis is on group members interacting with their peers. Specifically, you’ll: Bring as many different voices into the dialogue as possible Help share the air time equitably Encourage others to join in the…
