#167
It is always interesting to observe how, over time, terms expand and evolve. Initially, the focus was Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). More recently, I have seen - based on the rationale that inclusion must come first in order to then have diversity and equity - the phrasing, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity. In addition, the term Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) is gaining traction.
Stephen Covey’s quote, "Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important" is, as shared in my Diversity, Equity and Inclusion [DEI] [Part I] blogpost (January 2021), most pertinent when addressing issues pertaining to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in our schools and in our wider world. I particularly like this quote by Arthur Chan, a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategist, in as far as it is concise and makes it clear that practices relating to DEI/DEIB must be purposeful and with intent to render impact.
(Source: The Elephant in the Room, Facebook)
The concept of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging are always paramount and certainly resonate this week with International Women’s Day having just passed (March 8) and World Down Syndrome Day (March 21), International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (also March 21) and World Autism Awareness Day (April 1) coming soon. While these days and many others throughout the year may appear in some ways to be tokenistic, they do raise awareness of our diversity and when done with purpose and intent go some way to creating equity and inclusion and a greater sense of belonging for those so often marginalized.
I am reminded of a recent podcast, Brené with Aiko Bethea on Creating Transformative Cultures Dare to Lead with Brené Brown, in which Brené clarified her understanding of work relating to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging by saying, “... It’s relational, if it’s going to be transformational. So let me say that again, that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging work is not transactional. If you want it to be transformational, it has to be relational. Did I get that right?”
With the view to making belonging an outcome for all, how can we change and extend our practices to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion are the norm, rather than as a result of mandated policies?
References:
Brady, A. (2021) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion [DEI] [Part I] blogpost
Brown, B. (2021) Brené with Aiko Bethea on Creating Transformative Cultures Dare to Lead with Brené Brown
Facebook The Elephant in the Room
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