On my career journey, I've noticed distinct milestones etched in my memory, similar to bookmarks in your life's story. Do you have those too? Those moments where the world's events intersect with your personal narrative?
In this blog, we dive into the transformative power of such moments, exploring how they shape our perspectives and inspire action. So, whether you're seeking inspiration, guidance, or simply a space to reflect, this post promises to be a thought-provoking journey. Keep reading and bookmark this page for later—it's a resource you'll want to revisit time and again.
The Power of Reflection
If you're nodding along to those moments where life's events intersect with your own narrative, then you're in the right place.
For me, one of those moments was being at Disney World with my family on 9/11. The air buzzed with excitement, laughter, and the promise of magic. But then, abruptly, joy turned to shock as the tragedy unfolded. The world seemed to pause, collective gasps echoing through the air as we all realized what had just happened.
Similarly, the day the video of George Floyd's murder surfaced remains etched in my memory. The sheer brutality shook me to the core, challenging my belief in the inherent goodness of humanity. Before that pivotal moment, I was aware of racism and inequality, yet I found myself slipping into complacency. I silently accepted situations I should have challenged and grew numb to the injustices around me. But George Floyd's murder shattered that complacency. It served as a wake-up call, igniting a fire within me to confront injustice head-on.
The shifts were tangible. Organizations began actively including people of color, initiating discussions, and implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies. Major businesses publicly committed to anti-racism and prioritized policies supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Yet, amidst this flurry of activity, questions lingered. Was it performative? Were these gestures genuine or merely reactionary?
Navigating the Crossroads
Fast forward four years, and we find ourselves at a crossroads. The movement for racial justice has morphed into a polarizing debate, with individuals feeling compelled to pick sides. But progress isn't a binary choice; it's a spectrum. It's acknowledging that even in the most well-intentioned spaces, there's still work to be done. While we can't erase centuries of hardship and injustice endured by BIPOC communities, we can take stock of our present actions and strive to make meaningful progress.
"Why discuss this now?" you might ask. "Hasn't enough time passed?" After all, George Floyd's murder occurred in 2020—surely there are other pressing issues to address. The answer lies in our collective responsibility to keep the conversation alive. It's about holding ourselves and our organizations accountable for sustained action, not just momentary gestures. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to challenge the notion that solutions must be all or nothing.
Embracing the Gray
It's crucial for each of us to keep the message of inclusion at the forefront of our thoughts and actions (and hold organizations accountable for the same). While many believe solutions must be all or nothing, I disagree. There's room to navigate between being an ally and being an anti (being against change).
Being an ally means supporting underrepresented voices and championing their cause. While having allies are important and helpful when used appropriately – we cannot become
comfortable or complacent with our lives in the hands of those who have not shared our
lived experiences. The fight is just different.
On the opposite end, there are those completely opposed to progress. Engaging in a battle with them can divert our focus from meaningful change. As my grandmother used to say, "Not everyone is going to love you." We must accept this reality and focus on productive change instead of getting bogged down by opposition.
In this space, we have to be comfortable recognizing the enemies of our purpose and be comfortable moving past them to a productive pattern of change.
Practical Tips for Fostering Inclusivity in the Workplace
Somewhere in the middle of ally vs anti lies an effective and more productive approach
to ensuring that DEI stays alive and well in our organizations. Here are some of my
thoughts and ideas (they are yours to steal, bestie):
Employee resource groups (ERGs)
Employee Resource Groups are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the organizations they serve. This is a simple way to ensure that people in your organization can find a sense of belonging. It’s an authentic connection point that helps to align people with similar personal values. A good start may be to have a conversation with your HR department to see if there are any plans or any tools to help begin this process.
Honor & Celebrate Cultural Holidays
Civil Conversations
Measure What Matters
Provide Cultural Sensitivity Training
Offer a Book Club
Offering Flexibility
Collaborate with Other Organizations
Highlight Diverse Ways of Thinking
Create Safe Environments
In conclusion, our journey toward inclusivity is marked by pivotal moments that demand introspection and action. From the shock of tragedies like 9/11 to the awakening prompted by George Floyd's murder, each instance serves as a call to confront complacency and drive meaningful change. As we stand at the crossroads of progress, we must recognize that inclusivity is not a destination but a continuous journey.
By embracing small yet impactful actions, fostering dialogue, and championing diversity in all its forms, we can create workplaces and communities where every voice is valued and heard. Together, let's navigate this path with determination, knowing that our collective efforts, no matter how small, propel us toward a more equitable and inclusive future.
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Let's be besties!
Sonja Southerland
Innovate Human Capital Solutions
@innovatehcsolutions
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