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Hope and Reflection for DEI As We Move Into 2020
Dr. Nika White • December 17, 2019
As we enter the December holidays and transition into 2020, I want to share some inspiration, reflection, and hope in alignment with the work of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
2019 has been a year of large and complex social issues.
These issues of race, diversity, and inequities can weigh heavily on people and they seem to be growing in a deeper and more noticeable way. We often want to help the oppressed, the under-served, the indigenous, minorities, and our communities.
We may wonder—are we actually making any progress with this work? Is the state of society right where we were before the civil rights movement and it just looks different?
I believe one of the most important things we need to have as we go into the new year is hope.
PRACTICAL WAYS TO STAY HOPEFUL ABOUT DEI IN 2020
With the work of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, we must continue to push forward, create progress, and remain hopeful. This hope is what can push us through the difficult and ever-evolving work. So to finish up the year, here are some of my top thoughts to remain hopeful as we move into 2020.
Celebrate milestones and celebrate people.
This work is so complex that it can be hard to understand the “end goal”. This end goal is constantly moving because it evolves, people evolve, and the world evolves.
We can’t let ourselves feel defeated because we haven’t achieved a “final” destination… because there isn’t one. Instead, we must allow ourselves time to reflect and celebrate the smaller milestones along the way. These celebrations are what keep us motivated and steady on the path.
As I always say… it’s about progress, not perfection.
This is a season of grateful hearts and it’s also important to share gratitude. The end of the year is a great time for recognition of those individuals who have championed this DEI work.
I often share that this work can feel lonely. Sometimes you feel like you’re in the trenches by yourself and I know other DEI practitioners can feel the same.
Receiving a note, a card, or an email that your work or life has been impacted by someone else’s work is more important than you can know. Sometimes a simple email sharing that my message or speech impacted an organization can lift me up and re-inspire me.
We who are advocates, allies, and champions of the work should also not just thank those who carry the title, but thank those who are champions and allies doing hard work behind the scenes.
This gratitude and recognition helps to make sure they can influence the work in the most sustainable way. When people feel protected and supported, the work can be even more impactful.
Stay true to the “Why”.
Like many entrepreneurs, business owners, and change-makers—I love Simon Sinek’s “Start With Why” TED talk. This talk shares how important it is to know the “Why” of what you are doing versus just the “What”. Simon has shared a huge foundation with the world so we can stay the course. The “Why” of your work has to be bigger than any one person or collection of activities. That is what keeps us going. If this work were easy, we would have figured out the answers a long time ago.
For me, as challenges present themselves, I always return to my “Why” of creating diversity, inclusion, and equity in the world—and it helps me to stay the course. So, I encourage you to watch Simon’s TED talk and reflect on your purpose, your reason, your “Why” for all the good work that you do in this world.
Reflect on the 2019 DEI journey.
Reflection at the end of the year is vital so we can know what our strengths, weaknesses, wins, and losses were.
Set a time to sit down and reflect on:
- What have you accomplished?
- What remains to be done?
- How can we reactivate a mindset of passion and committed pursuit towards those goals?
- How can we improve for the next year?
- What assets did we successfully utilize to move closer to our goals?
- What assets can we utilize to better move towards our goal?
Don’t just take inventory on what you have not done. It’s also vital to take inventory on what you have done.
Identify ways in which you can get better. Utilize goal setting, constant review, and ongoing revision in your processes. Goalposts will move, relationships will change, and business pathways can shift. We must identify our ever-evolving plans so we can continue to make progress.
Sometimes, even if we have the answers right in front of us, even if we have a plan that moves us towards a goal, we must double down on the identification and details of that plan.
Reflect on what’s next with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
This is an excellent time for DEI councils, employee resource groups, or whoever is in charge of this type of work to really reflect on: “where do we go next”? Sometimes I feel what causes the DEI efforts to grow stale is when we continue to just do the same thing and drive towards the same results. Instead of trying to think strategically on— how do we take this to the next level?
I want people to think of DEI in the same regard. Not just in maintaining, but in how we grow and stretch ourselves to even greater heights in this work. Strategic visioning is paramount to this process.
Each organization will look different and this requires some organizational soul searching by asking questions such as—do we want to stay where we are or elevate to the next level? Do we bring on new champions who can help be in the trenches of the work and maybe identify more innovative approaches to the work? By thinking on “what’s next”, we can constantly improve and shift to create better and more effective outcomes.
Create a long-term plan to impact people in society.
It’s an important time of year to not JUST extend gratitude, support, and hope to those who are less fortunate and in need—but also consider—what can we do throughout the entire year to positively influence the circumstances for those individuals?
How can we create long term impact?
It’s one thing when we care “because it’s in the air” due to the season and the message of gratitude and compassion. But what will happen once the first of the year rolls around?
When individuals are oppressed, marginalized, disenfranchised—what happens once the lights come down, the festivities stop? How can we continue to do the good work?
We need to extend gratitude, intention, and hard work even beyond the season of giving. We must create long-term plans that yield positive impact.
Plan well to step into 2020.
Successful outcomes involve strategic planning.
As you enact your planning process for 2020, consider cultural audits/assessments or a SWOT analysis to inform the strategic planning process. These assessments and internal audits can help you see where you are at with your D&I initiatives and where you can improve. When it’s time to do strategic planning for the next year, businesses and organizations often sink into the review of standard business divisions and their missions/values. They may get into identifying goals/objectives for the next year, but they often leave DEI to the wayside.
That same diligence and intent of strategic planning should apply to this process of planning for DEI as well. Analyze, assess, and audit to find where your successes are and where your improvements with this work need to be.
So, as you finish out 2019 and plan for 2020, I encourage you to utilize some of these thoughts and suggestions. Dive into and reflect upon your purpose and work, practice gratitude, and plan well for the years ahead.
Wishing you and your family a happy holiday and an incredible new year. I look forward to sharing more diversity insights with you in 2020.
In a recent episode of Intentional Conversations, Dr. Nika White had the privilege of engaging with the inspiring Natasha Wade , a renowned coach dedicated to empowering Black women. Their conversation delved deep into the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly highlighting Black women's unique challenges and triumphs in today's society. The Power of Community and Self-Care Wade emphasized the importance of community and self-care for Black women. She shared her journey of overcoming adversity and finding her purpose. By creating a safe space for Black women to dream, build, and thrive, Wade empowers them to break free from societal expectations and embrace their true potential. Challenging the Superwoman Schema One of the key themes of the conversation was the detrimental impact of the Superwoman schema on Black women. Wade discussed how this societal pressure to be perfect, strong, and independent can lead to burnout, stress, and mental health issues. She encouraged Black women to prioritize self-care, seek support, and challenge these harmful stereotypes. Reimagining the Workplace Wade also shared her vision for a liberated workplace that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion. She advocates for workplaces that are empathetic and supportive and recognize the unique needs of Black women. Organizations can create environments where Black women can thrive by fostering a culture of belonging and empowerment. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The power of community: Building strong connections with other Black women can provide invaluable support and encouragement. Prioritizing self-care: Taking time for oneself is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Challenging the Superwoman schema: Embracing vulnerability and imperfection is vital to achieving balance and fulfillment. Reimagining the workplace: Creating inclusive and supportive work environments is crucial for the success of Black women. By sharing her insights and experiences, Natasha Wade offers a powerful message of hope and empowerment for Black women. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of community, self-care, and intentional action. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
The weight of the world often seems to rest on the shoulders of Black women. We are expected to be strong, resilient, and always giving. But what about the toll this takes on our mental health and overall well-being? The Double Standard It’s a well-known adage that Black women must work twice as hard to get half as much. This systemic inequality manifests in countless ways, from workplace discrimination to healthcare disparities. The constant struggle to prove ourselves, to overcome obstacles, and to navigate a world that often undervalues us can take a significant toll. A Personal Reflection The recent election results were a stark reminder of the challenges we face. As a Black woman, waking up to those results was a gut punch. It felt like a personal affront, a validation of the systemic biases and prejudices that continue to hold us back. In the days and weeks that followed, I found myself grappling with a range of emotions: anger, frustration, sadness, and a deep sense of despair. But I also knew that I couldn’t let these feelings consume me. Finding Solace and Strength I turned to my community to cope with the weight of these experiences. Friends and I planned a much-needed getaway to Panama City Beach, Florida. The sun, the sand, and the safety of trusted company provided a much-needed respite. I also committed to prioritizing self-care by signing my daughter and me up for a Women of Color Self-Care Retreat in February of 2025 in Barbados. This retreat will offer a safe space for Black women to connect, heal, and recharge. The Importance of Community and Connection One of the most powerful tools we have is the power of community. By connecting with other Black women, we can share experiences, offer support, and build a network of allies. Here are a few ways to foster these connections: Join Women's Organizations: Organizations like the National Council of Negro Women and Black Girls Rock! Provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, and advocacy. Attend Conferences and Workshops: Events specifically designed for Black women offer a chance to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals. Create Support Groups: Whether online or in-person, support groups can provide a safe space to share feelings, seek advice, and celebrate achievements. Prioritizing Self-Care Amid our busy lives, it's essential to prioritize self-care. By caring for ourselves, we are better equipped to care for others. Here are some self-care practices to consider: Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help reduce stress and promote mental clarity. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve physical and mental health. Healthy Eating: Nourishing our bodies with nutritious food can boost energy levels and well-being. Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for optimal cognitive function and emotional regulation. Advocating for Change As Black women, we are responsible for advocating for policies and practices that promote equity and justice. Here are some ways to get involved: Vote: Our votes have the power to shape the future. Volunteer: Give back to your community by volunteering for organizations that support Black women and girls. Donate: Support organizations that are working to address systemic racism and inequality. Speak Out: Use your voice to challenge injustice and discrimination. Curated Experiences for Black Women We must create more opportunities for connection, growth, and healing to empower Black women further. These experiences should be designed to: Prioritize Safety: Ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. Offer Protection: Provide resources and support to help Black women navigate challenges. Foster Community: Create opportunities for meaningful connections and shared experiences. Promote Upskilling and Professional Development: Offer workshops, training, and mentorship programs to help Black women advance their careers. A Call to Action As Black women, we must continue to support one another. We must create spaces where we can share our experiences, offer empathy, and uplift each other. We must also advocate for policies that address the unique challenges we face. By prioritizing our mental health, seeking community support, and fighting for systemic change, we can move forward stronger than ever.
Rest, Resilience, and Reclaiming Your Rhythm In a world that often glorifies hustle culture and burnout, it's refreshing to have conversations that prioritize rest, renewal, and resilience. Our recent Intentional Conversations Vodcast featured a thought-provoking discussion with Amanda Miller Littlejohn , author of The Rest Revolution. Amanda, a renowned executive coach and leadership development expert, shared valuable insights on the importance of breaking free from the relentless cycle of overworking. She emphasized the detrimental effects of machine-like productivity, urging us to embrace our humanity and prioritize self-care. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The Illusion of Perfection: We often strive for unattainable perfection, a standard set by a machine-centric mindset. This relentless pursuit can lead to burnout and hinder our overall well-being. The Power of Rest: Rest is not a luxury; it's a necessity. By taking time to recharge, we can enhance our creativity, productivity, and overall quality of life. The Importance of Self-Awareness: Understanding our preferences, limitations, and triggers is crucial for maintaining balance and avoiding burnout. The Impact of Systemic Issues: Societal pressures and historical trauma can contribute to burnout. Recognizing these factors can challenge them and create a more supportive environment. How to Reclaim Your Rhythm: Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This could include meditation, yoga, time in nature, or reading a good book. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Learn to say no to additional commitments that may overwhelm you. Practice Mindfulness: Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce stress. Embrace Imperfection: Let go of the need to be perfect. Embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning. Connect with Others: Build strong relationships with supportive people who can offer encouragement and understanding. Implementing these strategies can reclaim our rhythm, reduce stress, and live a more fulfilling life. Remember, rest is not a luxury; it's a necessity . Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
Intentional Conversations is a series where we dive deep into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This week, Dr. Nika White had the privilege of hosting Wade Hinton , a seasoned attorney, strategist, and organizational culture and leadership expert. With his wealth of experience and insightful perspective, Wade shared his journey and offered invaluable advice on creating inclusive and innovative work environments. His passion for creating inclusive cultures and fostering innovation is evident in every word he speaks. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The Power of Belonging: Wade emphasized the importance of feeling connected to a community. His decision to return to Chattanooga was driven by a desire to create a sense of belonging for himself and others. Leadership as a Catalyst for Change: Leaders play a crucial role in shaping organizational culture. Leaders can create inclusive and equitable workplaces by setting the tone, providing support, and fostering open dialogue. The Art of Intentional Conversation: Wade's e-book, "Bridge Building," offers practical strategies for meaningful conversations, even with those with differing viewpoints. He encourages us to approach these conversations with curiosity, empathy, and a genuine desire to understand. The Impact of DEI on Business: Investing in DEI is not just a moral imperative; it's a strategic business decision. By creating inclusive cultures, organizations can attract and retain top talent, drive innovation, and improve overall performance. Wade's Advice for Leaders Acknowledge the Current Climate: Recognize the impact of external factors on employees' well-being and productivity. Create Space for Dialogue: Encourage open and honest conversations about sensitive topics. Leverage Organizational Values: Use values as a guiding principle for decision-making and behavior. Prioritize Mental Health: Offer resources and support to help employees manage stress and anxiety. Practice Active Listening: Listen attentively to employees' concerns and perspectives. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
In this insightful Intentional Conversations Vodcast hosted by Dr. Nika White, Rochelle Younan-Montgomery , a renowned expert in creating cultures of belonging, delved into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). We explored the challenges and opportunities in fostering genuine connection and addressing conflict in today's workplaces. The Impact of Personal Experiences on DEI Work Rochelle shares her personal experiences growing up in a mixed-race family and living in Minneapolis during the aftermath of George Floyd's murder. These experiences have profoundly shaped her understanding of systemic racism and the importance of creating inclusive environments. She emphasizes the significance of open and honest conversations, even when complex, to address race, equity, and belonging issues. Building Belonging in the Workplace Rochelle highlights the importance of trust, authenticity, and interrupting norms of exclusion to create cultures of belonging. She discusses the concept of "cultural taxation," where individuals from marginalized groups are often burdened with additional responsibilities related to DEI work. To mitigate this, she suggests strategies such as: Recognizing and addressing cultural taxation: Identify instances where individuals are asked to do more than their job descriptions require, particularly concerning DEI work. Providing adequate compensation and support: Ensure that individuals who take on additional DEI responsibilities are compensated fairly and receive the support needed to fulfil their roles. Creating a culture of psychological safety: Foster an environment where employees feel safe to speak up and share their experiences without fear of retribution or judgment. Navigating Conflict and Fostering Restorative Dialogue Rochelle emphasizes the importance of conflict curiosity and restorative dialogue in addressing workplace conflicts. She shares practical tips for navigating difficult conversations, including: Practicing mindfulness: Take a moment to pause and center yourself before responding to a conflict. Using the "open the front door" framework: This framework helps you to observe, think, feel, and desire, allowing you to communicate your needs clearly and effectively. Cultivating a spirit of generosity: Approach conflict with empathy and understanding, seeking to find common ground and build bridges. Final Thoughts Organizations can create more equitable and inclusive workplaces by incorporating these strategies and fostering a culture of belonging. Rochelle's insights offer valuable guidance for leaders and employees committed to advancing DEI. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
In this article, we'll delve into an enlightening conversation between Dr. Nika White and Simma Lieberman , a renowned DEI expert, as part of the Intentional Conversations Vodcast. Simma's vast experience and insights offer invaluable perspectives on creating inclusive cultures and fostering meaningful dialogue around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Simma Lieberman: A Force in DEI Simma Lieberman, a seasoned DEI advocate, has dedicated her career to building inclusive environments where individuals can thrive. Her passion for fostering diversity and equity stems from her personal experiences growing up in the Bronx and her subsequent involvement in social justice movements. Key Takeaways from the Conversation The Power of Personal Stories: Simma emphasizes the importance of sharing personal narratives to bridge divides and foster empathy. By sharing their experiences, individuals can create a sense of connection and understanding. Creating Safe Spaces: To facilitate meaningful conversations about DEI, creating a safe and non-threatening environment is essential. Simma's approach involves using humor and avoiding judgment to encourage open dialogue. The Business Case for DEI: Simma highlights the strategic benefits of prioritizing DEI in organizations. By creating inclusive cultures, companies can attract top talent, improve employee morale, and enhance their reputation. Individual Change is Key: While systemic changes are crucial, Simma emphasizes the importance of personal transformation. We can contribute to a more equitable society by confronting our biases and assumptions. The Evolving Landscape of DEI: Simma discusses the evolution of DEI work from a focus on business strategy to a broader emphasis on individual and societal change. Final Thoughts The conversation between Dr. Nika White and Simma Lieberman offers valuable insights into the complexities of DEI work. By understanding the power of personal stories, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and recognizing the importance of individual change, we can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
In this blog post, we'll delve into an insightful conversation between Dr. Nika White and Carolina Barsa from the Intentional Conversations Vodcast. Carolina Barsa, the co-founder and chief innovation and brand officer at FitBiomics, shares her unique perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the healthcare industry. Key Takeaways from the Conversation The Importance of Diversity in Leadership: Carolina emphasizes the significance of having diverse leadership teams to ensure that products and services are developed with a wide range of perspectives in mind. Equity vs. Equality: She highlights the distinction between equity and equality, noting that equity involves providing individuals with the resources they need to succeed, while equality treats everyone equally. The Role of Women in Innovation: Carolina discusses the contributions of women to innovation throughout history and the importance of empowering women to lead in this field. The Power of Gut Health: She delves into the connection between gut health and overall well-being, highlighting the potential of microbiome-based solutions to address various health challenges. The Intersection of DEI and Healthcare: Carolina discusses the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities and the need for more equitable and inclusive practices in the industry. Carolina Barsa's Journey Carolina's personal journey as a first-generation American and her experiences navigating the professional world provide valuable insights into the challenges many individuals from diverse backgrounds face. She shares her experiences with language barriers, career exploration, and the importance of taking risks to pursue one's passions. Final Remarks The conversation between Nika White and Carolina Barsa offers valuable insights into the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the healthcare industry. Carolina's personal experiences and professional accomplishments inspire individuals seeking to impact their communities positively. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
The Intentional Conversations Vodcast, hosted by the NWC Team, fosters open and honest discussions about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). In a recent episode, Dr. Nika White engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Yeruwelle de Rouen , an insightful leader with a diverse background in counseling, psychology, philosophy, critical race theory, and restorative organizational development. A Powerful Intersection Yeruwelle's unique perspective, shaped by her multi-ethnic upbringing, homeschooling experience, and identity as a light-skinned BIPOC cis woman, provides a rich lens through which to examine the complexities of DEI. She shared how her intersecting identities have informed her approach to equity work, emphasizing the importance of recognizing personal narratives and stories as a superpower. Systemic Issues and Restorative Practices The conversation delved into the systemic nature of racial oppression and the need for restorative approaches to address harm and rebuild communities. Yeruwelle highlighted the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. She emphasized the role of restorative practices in fostering collaboration, understanding, and healing. Restorative Organizational Development: A Holistic Approach Yeruwelle also discusses her work in restorative organizational development. She emphasizes creating a culture of proactive engagement, iteration, and agreement within organizations. Restorative approaches, which center on relationships, conflict resolution, and accountability, can foster a more equitable and inclusive workplace. She explains, "Restorative justice is an indigenous process of calling people in, right? You know, it's about recognizing harm, healing, and taking accountability for that without pushing out. Because the point is to rebuild community and continue together." Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The Power of Personal Narratives: Our individual stories and experiences are essential to understanding DEI. The Importance of Systemic Awareness: Recognizing the systemic nature of racial oppression is crucial for practical DEI work. Restorative Practices for Healing and Community Building: Restorative approaches can help address harm, foster healing, and rebuild communities. The Need for Inclusive Spaces: Creating spaces where everyone feels valued and heard is essential for promoting equity and inclusion. The conversation between Dr. Nika White and Yeruwelle de Rouen offered valuable insights into the complexities of DEI work. By understanding the intersectionality of identity, recognizing systemic issues, and embracing restorative practices, we can create more equitable and inclusive communities. Intentional Conversations is a weekly vodcast/podcast brought to you by Nika White Consulting that intersects dialogue of diversity, equity, and inclusion with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday, 11 am to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
October 15th marks the conclusion of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor and celebrate the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. As a firm committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Nika White Consulting is proud to recognize and appreciate the rich history and culture of the Hispanic community. A Brief History Hispanic Heritage Month was established in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week. In 1988, it was expanded to a month-long celebration. The dates were chosen to coincide with the independence days of several Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua (September 15 th ), Mexico (September 16th), and Chile (September 18th). The Importance of Hispanic Heritage Month This month-long observance is an opportunity to: Acknowledge the contributions: Hispanic and Latino Americans have made significant contributions to every aspect of American society, from arts and culture to science and technology. Celebrate diversity: Hispanic Heritage Month is a reminder of the rich diversity of the United States and the importance of embracing different cultures and perspectives. Promote understanding: By learning about Hispanic history and culture, we can foster greater understanding and appreciation for this vibrant community. Nika White Consulting's Commitment to the Hispanic Community At Nika White Consulting, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting local organizations. We are proud to have a longstanding relationship with the SC Hispanic Alliance. This organization has been instrumental in providing resources, support, and advocacy for the Hispanic community in the Upstate region. Their efforts have helped to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all. I personally have always enjoyed attending the SC Hispanic Alliance's events and supporting their initiatives. Their commitment to education, empowerment, and cultural preservation aligns perfectly with our own values at Nika White Consulting. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is not just about recognizing the past; it's also about looking towards the future. By fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, we can create a more just and equitable society for everyone. As we continue to navigate a rapidly changing world, it's more important than ever to embrace diversity and celebrate our differences. Hispanic Heritage Month is a powerful reminder of the richness and beauty that comes from a diverse community.
In a recent episode of the Intentional Conversations Vodcast, host Dr. Nika White engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with DEI practitioner Shani Dellimore Barrax . The conversation delved into the complexities of creating inclusive organizational cultures and the unique challenges faced by Black women in the workplace. Shani Dellimore Barrax: A Force for Change Shani, a seasoned DEI practitioner with over two decades of experience, is passionate about fostering inclusive and humane cultures. As the principal of Aurora Change Agency, she works with organizations to create environments characterized by psychological safety, self-inquiry, and the freedom to innovate. Her commitment to this work stems from a deep understanding of the importance of cultural humility and her own personal journey. The Power of Cultural Humility Shani emphasized the distinction between cultural competence and cultural humility. While cultural competence focuses on learning about other cultures, cultural humility involves turning the mirror inward and examining one's own perspectives and biases. She stressed the importance of self-awareness and reflection in creating inclusive spaces. Psychological Safety: A Prerequisite for Belonging The conversation also explored the concept of psychological safety. Shani argued that a lack of psychological safety can have a profound impact on individuals, particularly Black women. She used the metaphor of "psychological Spanx" to describe the internal pressure experienced by many Black women who feel the need to conform to societal expectations and hide their true selves. The Unique Experiences of Black Women Shani highlighted the intersectionality of race and gender, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by Black women. She discussed the importance of creating safe spaces where Black women can share their experiences, address racial battle fatigue, and feel affirmed. The Ikoni Collective, a community for Black women, is one such space that aims to provide support and empowerment. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: Cultural humility is essential for creating inclusive environments. Psychological safety is crucial for fostering belonging and well-being. Black women face unique challenges in the workplace due to the intersection of race and gender. Creating inclusive spaces requires intentional effort and a commitment to understanding diverse perspectives. The conversation between Dr. Nika White and Shani Dellimore Barrax offered valuable insights into the complexities of DEI work and the importance of centering the experiences of marginalized communities. By understanding the challenges faced by Black women and the strategies for creating inclusive cultures, organizations can take significant steps towards fostering equity and belonging. Intentional Conversations is a weekly vodcast/podcast brought to you by Nika White Consulting that intersects dialogue of diversity, equity, and inclusion with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday, 11 am to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.
