2021: Notes 5-31 -- The Inclusion Change Agents

Throughout 2021, so many colleagues have stepped up to make a visible, positive, significant impact on the inclusive culture at my company. I am overcome with gratitude and admiration for all the ways that these individual shared of themselves. They truly transformed the company in ways that go beyond my most ambitious expectations. 27 people stand out for their contributions, and I've written to each one personally to express my appreciation. Below are some of the great things they've done.

A group of people decided to create a series of "Uncomfortable Conversations" (modeled after Emmanual Acho's Uncomfortable Conversations With A Black Man. https://uncomfortableconvos.com) There were sessions about Asian hate, LGBTQIA+, People of Color, and antisemitism, with more sessions planned. Moderated by a deft and compassionate leader, panels of employees shared their stories and experiences openly, expanding people's awareness and understanding of one another.

Each week people joined a "Safe Space Sharing Session", where employees of all backgrounds and experiences talked about their lives, their fears, and what they were doing to try and make the world (and the company) a better place. These sessions were often emotional and wrenching, but also uplifting and inspiring.

There is the Inclusion & Diversity Steering Committee, comprised of passionate and committed colleagues who spent countless hours working to drive awareness, change and a greater sense of compassion throughout the company. They plan events, get involved in training programs, write newsletters and provide learning materials, and are role models of inclusive behavior.

And of course there's more...but this is a blog and I can't possibly list everything.

So much of what they did required personal risk -- sharing of oneself in a professional setting is not easy. Their willingness to do so helped open the door for others to do the same. They have made an indelible mark on the company and created a supportive, open environment that is changed forever.