I am a Slicer who feels like democracy is under attack in the United States, and one active threat (among many) is how a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is being twisted and weaponized as anti-merit, anti-American and evil. I now know and understand this tactic was chosen by a political strategist (and this pains me, but it's a fact. Read more here for recent updates and read about the beginning of this effort here), and so far, has been effective tactic (this fact also pains me).
The three presenters were folks I know and folks I loved learning from. Here are some of the lessons:
From Mark Swaim Fox: Do not use the acronym - always speak and write the full words, diversity, equity and inclusion, to reinforce what you are advocating/working for and toward. Employees truly do want to feel connected, respected and productive. Diversity, equity and inclusion work should focus on these outcomes.
From Erica Merritt: There are levels of resistance to diversity, equity and inclusion. Some folks have a lack of understanding and need more information. Some don't like it, and don't see how it aligns with their values or the company's bottom line; they also fear losing something. And unfortunately, another level is folks who truly don't like differences - who are hoarding, wielding or abusing power. As advocates, we must continue to believe we can create a world that works for all people - and that our efforts around inclusion are, indeed, essential for some and truly beneficial to us all.
Erica also reflected that these are days of "strategic adaptation" - that we can use our energy to build something new (this reminds me of the many brilliant advocates who are saying "schools have not been working for all kids, for many generations"), to step into actions that center "human flourishing" (beautiful language!).
Kevin Clayton talked about the lessons in book he's writing, and several of his key points were about the redesign space we're in, and how we need to engage in local work. As a business leader, he also recognizes that we must normalize how diversity, equity and inclusion work is aligned to outcomes - it improves outcomes. Mark connected back to this point by sharing research (I will try to find and link!) that workplaces that do not focus on diversity, equity and inclusion have low productivity, high turnover and low engagement - all things that hurt the bottom line.
The room was packed, and at several points, folks cheered in response to the presenters. The energy for learning and connecting was uplifting. I agreed with much of what was shared, but not everything (perhaps a future Slice). And I wish there had been more clear unpacking of the weaponization of anti-diversity, equity & inclusion efforts as a threat to democracy (tightly tied up to the dismantling of public education). I am so grateful to have been there in person to listen, learn, reflect and connect. And as Erica mentioned, we must remember that our small moves have impact** - and we are not alone.
What a wonderful way to share the tips from the presenters. Especially spelling out Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion instead of saying the acronym so that the words stay prominent. I worry about our world and how we treat others who are different from us.
ReplyDeleteI worry so much, too, Kim. So I'm really leaning into learning AND action. I am grateful for all the posts I see during the Slice that are about inclusion, too. I believe that together, we will be making a big difference.
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