We Have Work to Do
Photo by LeeAnn Cline on Unsplash
This Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, more than any in years’ past, is hitting me as a time to take a long, honest look at who I am called to be, and what I am called to do, in the work to keep King’s dream alive.
If we want to ensure that “the arc of the moral universe” truly “bends toward justice,” as King asserted, we need to be relentless in our efforts toward inclusion and equity. We need to spend more than a day reading speeches, watching documentaries, attending events, discussing anti-racism in our communities. All these are good and important ways to show up in this work. Showing up continually and authentically is even better and more important. To quote Carole Burton and Sarah McNally, “we need a daily equity practice.”
Here is where I confess that follow-through is one of my greatest challenges. The spirit is willing but the flesh, mind, discipline … they are weak. Which is why I need this honest look at my behavior and commitment to change. Which is why I rely on wiser people and great resources to help me grow into a better ally and advocate, to help me transfer the privileges I possess to those who have been marginalized and minimized.
If you are also in a place of reflecting on and recommitting to your work towards equity (for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disable persons, or other groups), and you are wondering how to weave it into your daily life, you might enjoy these people, resources, and action items.
Listen to Carole Burton & Sarah McNally’s “Daily Equity Practice” podcast series via Radiance Real Talk. A pull-back-the-curtain conversation about how mindset, adaptability, and accountability are key to building equity.
Explore Debby Irving & Eddie Moore, Jr.’s 21-day Racial Equity Challenge. Ideas and resources for digging in on a daily basis through learning, observing, engaging, and staying inspired in this work.
Watch Vikas Narula’s “The Power of Connection - Bridging the Divide” TEDx Talk. Thoughts from a great storyteller on how to bridge the cliques and polarized cultures that humans naturally gravitate towards bridge these divides.
Audit Your LinkedIn Network. Get a baseline understanding of who your connections are across demographic categories and compare it to national averages. Then consider intentional and committed ways to build bridges to more diverse networks. Follow and amplify thought leaders who don’t look like you. Engage with groups committed to DEI progress. Connect and converse with industry leaders with different experiences and backgrounds. Speak out about unjust events and voice your support for equity.
Join Jill Knobeloch & yours truly for a Better Together Diversity Book Discussion. If reading is your thing and you are looking to discuss insights and imperfect allyship for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled persons, and more, this monthly discussion group with like purposed people is designed for community connection, authenticity, and accountability.
Do YOUR best work in an inclusive, equitable manner. You don’t have to rewrite your business plan or purpose statement. Keep sharing your gifts with the world, but keep your eyes and heart open to ways that your gifts can build up others. Just as a rising tide lifts all boats, inclusion and equity benefit you and your business while supporting the greater good.
If you have favorite guides and resources that help you to lean into equity on a continual basis, please share them in the comments below. Wishing you sustained energy and endurance for the good work you do.