Please Remove 'Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I)' From Your Website
Let’s face it, our social and economic climates have shifted and we are in a time where diversity, equity and inclusion have become an intricate, yet imperative part of how we desire the world to see our organizations. The thought of having a melting pot culture, brings joy to some and stress to others. It is the discomfort and disruption this shift can cause that is the challenge.
So why do we add it to our websites? Is it the hope that the mirage will last long enough to lure in the best and brightest talent, only to lose them months later? I would like to submit that if your organization has not truly adopted diversity, equity and inclusion, but it has confidently been added to your website, your integrity (and credibility) may be compromised. Yes, it looks great as one of your core values, but if it is not threaded into the fabric of your culture, it does not exist.
Diversity, equity and inclusion is not an event.
Let’s pause for a second to ensure there is understanding of ‘core values’. Core values are that by which an organization governs itself. They are your nonnegotiables, and oftentimes will guide your decisions. Therefore diversity, equity and inclusion is not an event. As a training and development leader, I see this too often. One training or information session will not nurture a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture. When there is no vision, execution, nor follow-up, it has become a one-and-done, crossing fingers, event.
There has to be an intentional effort to bridge a divide, knowing you are exposed to one every day you log onto your computer, when you meet a new or potential client, and unimaginably beyond. It is the ability to lay aside ego and unite people. It is the courage to come to work and not leave your heart at home (or virtually, in the other room).
So, before adding these powerful and bold words to your website, think about the bravery it will take to alter the DNA of your organization's culture. That work takes COMMITMENT, buy-in, and stamina, which are all necessary before getting started.
to the point Kashonna.....
Progressive BSN with passion for educating and inspiring others.
1yAmazing post. I am passionate about this and am doing my capstone on developing the culture and a website so our employees can not only have the training but can access articles and resources and submit questions if they are not aware of something or someone's belief system. In my training environment I tell everyone you must first be able to hold a mirror up to yourself and be accountable for your own bias and beliefs and then you have to ask yourself can you respect and love everyone else. The first step is love and then to stop speaking and listen so that you can learn about others and then let them learn about you. I have met so many fascinating people in my life and have been blessed by them all, good and bad because "I have learned". Thank you for being you. 💜
Speaker. Trainer. Workshop Facilitator. Culture Strategist
2yInteresting and I agree! Would love to follow up with you sometime.
Public health adm., retired , Local Health Dept.
3yWell said! Too often it's posturing!
SPEAK, SOUND, LOOK, and LISTEN Like a Leader | Speech & Communication Trainer and Executive Coach | Speaker | Author | Yoodli AI Advisor
3yExcellent points, Kashonna. We need to learn how to communicate and it begins with pausing and listening!