Keeping Diversity and Inclusion Relevant
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Keeping Diversity and Inclusion Relevant

At a time when America is divided

7
Keeping Diversity and Inclusion Relevant
Karin Yearwood

The outcome of the presidential election has sparked many emotions throughout our country. And since then, the emotions have run high. Protests in cities, an intense continuation of social media blasts, and marginalized communities literally living in fear for maintaining their livelihood. In January of 2017, America will have new leadership. Leadership permeates from the top down. At least in regards to policy, laws, and overall progression.

Some of the toughest conversations many people have are those about race, gender, sexual orientation, and religion all topics the campaigns were gravid with. Since a new president typically symbolizes moving forward, we must ask the question, how do we continue the conversation on diversity and inclusion (D&I)? It as been tough due to plenty of individuals believing D&I is no longer relevant. We all have access to all the same resources, right? And discrimination is a thing of a bygone era, true?

My intellect and raw common sense would say no. But I am only one person. Because our views differ greatly, and we have literally hundreds of ways to express those views, it is imperative that we have well-informed, meaningful discussions about inclusion. When people show up with senseless chatter as a basis for argument, everyone goes in circles. There is no conclusion.

For those conversations to move from speech to action, we need strong leaders. Leaders that will commit to the right side of history even if that means being unpopular. Our greatest leaders were men and women who received much criticism, abuse, and even death because they stood in their truth, on the side of equality.

I can't say for sure what will happen in the near future. But I can say for sure that something WILL happen. Leaders of organizations and companies need to keep D&I in focus because it is quite possible many liberties as we know them will change. Let's not silence the talk around diversity and inclusion; it could be the only thing keeping us united.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

58261
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

37530
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

959155
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

193148
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments