Central Ohio Belonging Consortium

Central Ohio Diversity Consortium Transforms to Central Ohio Belonging Consortium The Central Ohio Diversity Consortium, a vanguard in championing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging DEIB in the Central Ohio region, is excited to unveil its new identity: the Central Ohio Belonging Consortium. This rebranding marks a significant evolution in our mission, placing an even greater emphasis on fostering a deep sense of belonging for every individual within our community. A Vision Reimagined "Our transition to the Central Ohio Belonging Consortium is a powerful declaration of our broadened vision," stated Margaret D. Finley, President of the Consortium. "While our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains steadfast, we recognize that the true essence of our work lies in cultivating an environment where every person feels seen, valued, and connected—a place where they truly belong." New Initiatives for a New Era With this rebranding, the Central Ohio Belonging Consortium is launching several forward-thinking initiatives designed to enhance the sense of belonging across all sectors of our community. Stay tuned for more information to come. A Commitment to Belonging The essence of our new identity is belonging. The Central Ohio Belonging Consortium is committed to building bridges across differences and creating a tapestry of interconnectedness that enriches the lives of all. We believe that belonging is not just a concept but a lived experience that must be nurtured and celebrated. See the full press release on our website at https://lnkd.in/e7fAd5GZ ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

Presidential Action and Reflection: Common Ground, Making Impact During our "Common Ground, Making Impact" session this week, after delivering my opening remarks, I took a seat at the back of the room to observe the conversation. As the first hour unfolded, I sensed a palpable heaviness among the participants. Recognizing the need for a shift in energy, I decided to intervene before we opened the floor for questions. I asked everyone to stand up, take a deep breath, and exhale. Then, I invited them to join me in an impromptu and necessary intervention. I wanted to hear from everyone in the room about how they were feeling based on the conversation thus far. Microphones were passed around, and participants were asked to share 1-3 words to describe their emotions. What happened next was simply priceless. We closed the session with a collective agreement that we needed a release in a safe space. While I captured the words shared, I choose to respect the vulnerability and honesty we embraced in those moments. I wholeheartedly believe that we need more conversations, support, and empathy for one another. We must be the wind beneath each other's wings. Thank you all for trusting me to take us off script. Belonging is the journey ahead. Central Ohio Diversity Consortium

We want to give a special thanks to our panelists, Scott Johnson, Jamille Jones, and Daniel Juday, M.Ed, C.D.P. for leading an engaging discussion this past week on how community leaders and organizations can come together for the common good. We appreciate all who attended and contributed to the dialogue. Many thanks to Jebel Jones who captured these great moments! If you missed this event but would like to connect with us in person, mark your calendar for July 17! We'll be at the Hashtag Comedy Company space on High Street working on building employee engagement through improv! You won't want to miss this one. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gC_gg5XB #DEIB #CultureofBelonging #EmployeeEngagement #ColumbusNetworking

We're excited to connect with Daniel Juday, M.Ed, C.D.P., Jamille Jones, and Scott Johnson tonight for our panel discussion on how community partners can come together for greater impact. Hope you see you all there!

REMINDER: Join us next Tuesday for our quarterly event, a panel discussion on finding common ground and building partnerships that have lasting impact on our community. We'll be at the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, 111 Liberty St. Space is filling up, but it's not too late to register! Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/gX5K8U5u

In this episode of DEI After 5, Sacha Thompson, MBA, MEd, ACC talks with Sara Taylor from deepseeconsulting about the impact of the political landscape on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the workplace. They talk about why DEI is under attack and why some organizations are backing out of their commitment to it while others are doubling down. They also discuss the importance of diversity and cultural competency for any organization and how they incorporate these principles into their work. While Sacha and Sara point out that the terminology is relatively new, the work has not changed. Fundamentally, it's about organizational transformation. And requires consistent, solid communication over time. #DEI #DEIintheWorkplace https://lnkd.in/gj84e-fz

February 20 is World Day of Social Justice, a day dedicated to advancing human rights, fairness, and equality around the globe. Established by the United Nations in 2007, this day reminds us that true justice means breaking down barriers related to race, gender, economic status, and more—ensuring everyone has access to opportunities and protections. This year’s theme focuses on bridging gaps in labor rights, education, and economic fairness. But social justice isn’t just a policy issue—it’s something we can all work toward in our daily lives. Here are a few ways to take action today: ?? Advocate for workplace equity—Support fair wages, diverse hiring, and inclusive leadership. ?? Educate yourself & others—Read about systemic injustices and share knowledge. ?? Support organizations fighting for justice—Donate, volunteer, or amplify their work. ?? Use your voice—Speak up against discrimination and push for policies that promote equity. Social justice isn’t a one-day effort—it’s an ongoing commitment. What’s one action you’re taking to promote justice in your workplace or community? Let’s inspire each other in the comments. #WorldDayOfSocialJustice #JusticeForAll #Equity #DEI #Fairness #HumanRights

Please join us in Congratulating our own Central Ohio Diversity Consortium Treasurer Ralonda S. Hampton for being selected as a 2025 YWCA Columbus Women on The Rise Honoree. We are so very proud of her. Ralonda has certainly been a great Treasurer for CODC. YWCA Columbus 2025 Women on the Rise! These emerging leaders are making waves in Central Ohio-driving social change, giving back to the community, and embodying YWCA's mission of empowerment and equity. On April 2, 2025, the YWCA will bring together change-makers, advocates, and leaders to celebrate their incredible impact at Women of Achievement and Women on the Rise 2025.

Today, on Susan B. Anthony’s birthday, we honor a woman who played a crucial role in the fight for the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Her fight wasn’t just about voting—it was about equity, justice, and ensuring all voices were heard. Today we can honor her legacy by: ?? Supporting policies that ensure fair and accessible elections ?? Challenging gender biases in the workplace, including representation in leadership and pay gaps ?? Speaking up for women whose rights are still at risk Susan B. Anthony once said, “There never will be complete equality until women themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers.” The fight isn’t over—let’s keep pushing forward. How do you honor her legacy in your life and work? #SusanBAnthony #WomensRights #VotingRights #Equity #Leadership #DEI

On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her quiet courage ignited a movement, proving that one person can spark real change. Nearly 70 years later, her legacy challenges us to ask how we can take a stand when we see injustice in the world. This doesn't always mean making headlines. It could be speaking up when someone makes a hurtful joke or institutes a discriminatory policy in the workplace. It could be as simply as sharing someone else's social post and affirming it with your own comments or taking a moment to educate someone about why diversity, equity, and inclusion are still important. Rosa Parks once said, “You must never be fearful about what you are doing when it is right.” Let’s honor her legacy not just with remembrance, but with action. How are you taking a stand for equity and justice in your community or workplace? Let’s inspire each other in the comments. #RosaParks #BlackHistoryMonth #TakeAStand #Equity #Justice #DEI #CourageToAct