the missing ingredient
I have a quick question for you - what have you experienced as the biggest barriers to sustained and effective improvements in social justice efforts?
This article by Ingrid Wilson, CHRL, CMS highlights many of the challenges inherent in sustainable DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) efforts in the workspace. It's an important read for any organization motivated to go beyond the surface to actually building and sustaining an environment that is inclusive, respectful, and welcoming to all of their employees!
In my work, I've witnessed an additional reason why DEI efforts are not ultimately sustainable in their current format - regardless of whether we are talking about the efforts of an organization, system, or community...
Namely, the lack of organizational support for the wellbeing of the people leading these efforts to support inclusion, opportunity, and belonging for everyone.
There is tremendous logistical and emotional labor involved for those carrying the responsibilities of changemaking...especially when they are also so often the ones who bear the brunt of the ongoing injustices....
How is your group caring for the changemakers???
What support is being provided to you or other members of the DEI teams, Chief Equity (or Employee) Officers, ERG leaders and members, or HR leaders you know who are committed to creating spaces that are safe and welcoming to all?
I've borne witness to too many incredible contributors whose sustainable and effective impact was compromised by the sacrifice of their wellbeing in environments that expected them to keep serving with little respect or consideration for the emotional and physical toll this work takes.
There is another way.
To have a community or organization that is truly invested in sustainable improvements of their culture, policies, and practices, they must also offer tangible support to the individuals and teams tasked with this work.
When this happens, everyone wins. The improvements in culture and DEI efforts are complemented and enhanced by the wellbeing of the people doing the work.
When this doesn't happen, these valued and essential contributors continue to suffer, and so does their impact as they experience health crises, burnout, and potential departure from their position.
It's no wonder the average tenure of a DEI professional is less than 2 years!!!
If you truly care about both the inclusive culture of your community/organization AND those who are doing the work, please reach out and connect. I'd love to discuss ways you can offer real support that benefits everyone.
You matter. You can make a difference. I'm so thankful you're here.
