Ten tips.
Status Quo Disruptor | DEIA advocate | Thought Leader | Anti-racist advocate | Workshop Facilitator | Public Speaker | Training Expert
Ten tips for anyone in DEI: 1. You can't please everyone. Don't even try. Racism, sexism, transphobia, etc., are such dicey topics, you are going to be a polarized figure regardless of your approach. 2. You are going to tick people off. I recently read a book about a Black man who lost many white friends because he is anti-racist. He isn't the only one. Standing up to racism, ableism, Islamaphobia, and other forms of discrimination can strain relationships outside of DEI. 3. You have your work cut out for you. The backlash against DEI, CRT, and anti-racism is only in the beginning stages. Bigots are working round the clock to abolish and re-write Black history, force LGBTQIA+ folks back in the closet, and keep leadership white, male, and straight. And a lot of people are OK with that. 4. Pay attention to your emotions. DEI is exhausting and the burnout is real. If your mind and body are saying you need a breather, prioritize you by stepping away. 5. Know what fills your cup. Whether it's exercise, movies, or spending time with loved ones, indulge them. I once read a post from a colleague who took a breather from DEI to travel, sleep, and play video games. Remember, you can't fill anyone's cup if you don't fill yours first. 6. Find community. DEI can feel hopeless at times, especially when so many are pushing back and with the work never ending. Whether it's online, in-person, or both, find your people. I can't tell you how many times I've almost quit, only to have someone send love and encouragement my way. 7. Don't underestimate your influence. Whether you're a parent raising anti-racist kids, a Chief Diversity Officer, or a CEO, the impact of what you say and do is immeasurable. 8. You will make mistakes. One thing I absolutely cannot stand about DEI is how there is not much grace when it comes to mistakes. This sets people up for perfectionism, anxiety, and withdrawal. You can't help but make mistakes 1) because you're human and 2) if you don't share the lived experiences of another group. 9. Forgive yourself when others won't. When you mistake, learn from it, make amends as best you can, and keep it moving. 10. Never stop learning. #DiversityAndInclusion #Diversity #DEI #Equality #AntiRacism Image description: a honeycomb mosaic of diverse individuals.