CultureWizard Viewpoint: January Edition

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Resistance to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The first two weeks of 2024 have been full of opinion pieces and hot takes about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and the value (or harm) that they bring to organizations. Most importantly, several media organizations have pointed out trends that show resistance to DEI in some corporate settings.?

At RW3 CultureWizard, we have some experience in the DEI space. Although we do recognize that there is resistance from some (and support from others!) to DEI training, we have a different perspective on this latest mini culture war. We believe that the focus should be on inclusion.?

We specifically define inclusion as the behaviors and actions that allow others to feel welcomed, valued and appreciated within an organization. When put in those terms, it's difficult to be opposed to inclusion. Who would be opposed to welcome, valuing or appreciating others? Inclusion boils down to respecting others.?

We've found that as long as that remains the focal point, organizations (and the individuals in those organizations) do support inclusion initiatives.?

We hope that you agree and that you make 2024 all about inclusion. In other words, make it all about welcoming, valuing, appreciating and respecting others within your organization!

A Glimpse into U.S Culture: Sundance Film Festival

Set against Utah’s majestic landscape, the Sundance Film Festival (January 18–28) is a launchpad for independent films, elevating new, unique voices through a variety of documentaries, dramas, and short films.?

The Festival is emblematic of a culture that values individualism and egalitarianism, offering diverse and emerging artists a chance to speak.?

Those who submit their work for consideration are typically independent artists, and even just getting a place in the festival is fiercely competitive, with over 12,500 submissions and only around 275 spots.?

Started in 1985, Sundance reaches worldwide audiences, so a spot in the festival is both a coveted honor and potentially a major career-booster.

Sapporo Snow Festival Turns Winter To Art

The Japanese are known for making art from daily life—from fixing broken ceramics with beautiful gold fillings to graceful tea ceremonies with meticulous rituals. At the annual Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb 4 – Feb 11 this year), snow and ice are also turned into artistic masterpieces!

Artists from around the world gather to create intricate, awe-inspiring snow and ice sculptures, while attendees enjoy the magic of winter with shows, concerts, and food stalls. The celebration lasts for seven days.

The festival began in 1950, when collectively, local middle and high school students came together to create snow sculptures in Odori Park. Unexpectedly, 50,000 people showed up to participate in the celebration, and it became an annual event! In 1972, the Olympics in Sapporo drew international recognition for this popular, local festival.

Learn more about the Sapporo Snow Festival.