Radical Inclusiveness: A New Lens on Equity in the Workplace
“The burden of being black and the burden of being white is so heavy that it is rare in our society to experience oneself as a human being...Precisely what does it mean to experience oneself as a human being?” -Howard Thurman, Author, Educator, Civil Rights Leader
Issues of equity are all around us - whether we directly experience them everyday or we see others suffering from them. Racial inequity, gender inequity, pay gaps, unfair decision-making, and more are part of the everyday fabric of our lives.
These issues have been a major focus in the workplace. Let’s face it, if we’re employed or an employer, we work with people - and people have biases. Mix those biases with organizational complexities, and it can be the perfect storm.
Many organizations are currently striving to have an equitable culture and workforce. However, each one has a different perspective on how to get there. But, what if we shift our discussions from inequity to radical inclusiveness?
We can all agree that being human means being part of a whole - regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and more.
As with anything, however, shifting our lens on these issues takes time. But, it can be done, and it starts with you.
The next time you need to make a decision, business or personal, pause for a moment. Don’t ask yourself what you would do as a CEO, manager, parent, friend, or colleague. Instead, ask yourself:
“What would I do as a human being?”
See how your solution shifts, and over time, your relationships, organizational culture, and (in)tolerance for inequity.
Need resources?
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is in full force with their Getting Talent Back to Work initiative to end outdated non-inclusive hiring practices. Johnny Taylor and his team have put together toolkits, case studies, and other resources for you to get involved.
The Racial Equity Institute helps leaders who want to proactively understand racism. They offer trainings, hands on assistance, and coaching for organizations to move forward.
Start talking about the impact of love. No, not the romantic love you see in hallmark movies, but instead, compassion and empathy for other people. If you have not had her speak at your organization, MJ Shaar delivers a powerful message and shares tangible outcomes of cultures of love in the workplace.