In This Moment - A New Perspective on DEI

Khalil and Janet dive into the importance of identity months, proposing 'Black Hindsight Month' to link historical contributions with present actions. They stress the need for relevance in celebrations, pushing organizations to engage employees and make celebrations impactful. The Depth Model is introduced as a framework for authentic celebrations, encouraging deliberate and continuous efforts beyond mere token gestures. They emphasize creating a community spirit while also addressing structural changes within organizations to foster true inclusivity.

The discussion tackles burnout in DEI work, highlighting how recent political climate shifts have heightened fear and uncertainty. Different groups experience DEI fatigue in unique ways, impacting productivity and well-being. The conversation stresses the importance of diverse narratives and a data-driven approach to highlight the business value of DEI initiatives. Self-care strategies and prioritizing high-leverage actions are advised to combat burnout and sustain efforts. Ultimately, integrating DEI into business practices is crucial for long-term success.

Janet and Khalil dive into the power of language in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. They critique the term 'belonging' and introduce 'inclusilliance' as a more actionable alternative. The discussion emphasizes prioritizing measurable inclusion over vague concepts. They highlight the evolution of DEI language and stress the importance of aligning terms with an organization's values. Additionally, they suggest customizing DEI strategies rather than adopting universal best practices, ensuring that efforts truly reflect corporate purpose.

Hosts Khalil and Janet dive into the turbulent landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion in major corporations. They discuss recent rollbacks by companies like Meta and Amazon, emphasizing the necessity of integrating DEI into core strategies. The conversation categorizes firms into groups based on their DEI journeys and examines the influence of leadership on commitment. Listeners gain actionable advice on advocating for change in their organizations, all while underscoring the business imperative for a diverse and inclusive culture.

Janet and Khalil dive into the pressing challenges and opportunities in the DEI landscape. They highlight the prevailing mood of threat and how workplaces can be pivotal in fostering genuine diversity and inclusion. The discussion reframes equity as a disruption to an otherwise inequitable world, emphasizing that acknowledging inequity is the first step toward meaningful change. Humor also plays a role in navigating these conversations. Listeners can look forward to pragmatic advice and fresh, honest dialogues on DEI.