Rebuilding our systems to support equity and inclusion - Beth’s Corner

I hope you had a restful and healthy start to your 2022. For many, including myself, the new year is a time to reflect on the previous year and consider different ways to be in the new year. For the past two years, that reflection was challenged by what's happening around us. Last year, it was COVID-19 and the insurrection on the Capitol. This year, it's the COVID-19 Omicron surge. It almost feels like we are living in the movie Groundhog Day - trapped in a time loop forced to relive a challenging event repeatedly. And so, fewer people have pledged to follow a New Year's resolution than this time last year. A viral tweet seemed to sum up this change: "no new years resolutions. it is the circumstances turn to improve".

?I understand this sentiment. New Year's resolutions are often individualistic, focused on how one person can improve their health, career, etc. But right now, the inequities in our day to day systems make it feel almost trivial to focus on individual change. While we look to improve ourselves, we still face barriers beyond our control, like unequal access to medical care or hiring bias.

?So, rather than committing to a typical New Year's resolution this year, I encourage you to think of ways you can create more equitable systems that will support the community as a whole. This can look like getting more involved with local activism, offering your talents to a non-profit organization, or leading a DEI initiative within your workplace.

Together, we can recognize and rebuild the systems that are not serving us. I hope that this approach of committing to others in addition to yourself will energize you throughout 2022.

Consider how you can work with others to make systems more equitable in 2022. When you have an idea, share it on social media and tag @ywboston to let us know. We will be excited to support you along the way.

Warmly,

Beth Chandler

President & CEO, YW Boston