Four things Maya Angelou teaches us about inclusion

Searching for solutions to the social justice issues of our day points us to Maya Angelou's work, which beckons for us to create a more just and equitable world. Maya Angelou is a National Medal of Arts winner, Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, Grammy award-winning activist, poet and and legendary author. Born a St. Louisan, she is resoundingly my favorite poet because her iconic words have a way of illuminating clarity amidst chaotic world challenges. Her writings are also helpful in contextualizing the ongoing conversations about #inclusion, #belonging and #equity. Here are four things #MayaAngelou teaches us about inclusion.

By far, one of her most prolific quotes is this,

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -Maya Angelou

These words demonstrate that the way we treat people leaves a lasting impression. Whether it's a work colleague, a neighbor, or a friend, we should strive to always treat others with understanding, empathy and respect. In the age of culture wars, this is increasingly important. So, regardless of our intent, it's important to make sure that the impact of our actions leave others feeling included.

Maya Angelou also encouraged us to examine our own biases, rid our hearts of prejudice and refrain from unfairly judging others. She said,

"Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible." -Maya Angelou

In order to create a world that values our unique experiences and identities, we have to move beyond our own preconceived notions to fully embrace others. Doing so opens up a world of possibilities and failing to do so threatens our future.

Demonstrating empathy and understanding requires courage. And courage is necessary to create inclusive environments. She explains,

"Without courage we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous or honest."

-Maya Angelou

Courage prompts us to build bridges across difference. Courage causes us to speak up when others are being treated unfairly. Courage allows us to make a mistake, apologize and do better the next time. In short, courage is a necessary ingredient for prioritizing and practicing inclusion.

Maya Angelou also stressed the importance of being deliberate. Because ally is an action word, this is an important message for all of us. She admonished,

"Nothing will work unless you do."

-Maya Angelou

In other words, we can't be passive bystanders and hope that inclusion materializes. In making inclusion a reality, we must proactively engage in conversations about equity, leveling the playing field, and creating inclusive environments. This will ensure that our actions create the changes in #diversityequityinclusion that we desire.

I am grateful that Maya Angelou's words that taught us how to feel...to feel the pain, lived experience and daily challenges of others. This should be fuel for prioritizing inclusion in everything that we do. My charge: Be inspired by Maya Angelou's words and model love, dignity and respect. Then, use your influence, positions of power and allyship to strive for freedom, justice, equity and opportunity for all. This is the work that she envisioned for us all.

To continue the conversation, check out LinkedIn News and their #ConversationsForChange campaign. #systemicchange #representationmatters #inclusionmatters #inclusionanddiversity #diversityandinclusion #diversityequityinclusionbelonging

Desiree S. Coleman advances equity and empowers women through speaking, writing and curating women's empowerment events. Connect online: @desireescoleman