Issues of race, gender, ethnicity, and identity are personal, sensitive, and can be emotionally challenging to address, no matter how our individual experiences impact our world views, how we relate to others, and how we approach our work. Examining and reflecting on those experiences and our personal influence can help us uncover individual and systemic biases, remove barriers to communication and collaboration with colleagues, and ultimately create a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable work culture.
Some people may be hesitant to do this work because of previous experiences where they may have felt vulnerable, been attacked or experienced criticism. Before beginning these courageous conversations, it’s important to make sure everyone makes a commitment to creating a constructive and authentic discussion together. To honor and respect people’s lived experiences and points of view, another important skill is listening. In discussing DEI topics, it’s important that each person can feel heard, and to listen deeply to other’s lived experiences and discussion points. This exercise is one way to start having these courageous conversations in a way that is meaningful, intentional, and productive. It can be done in person or virtually.
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