Reconstructing Inclusion Demands Systemic Organizational Change
Reconstructing Inclusion Demands Systemic Organizational Change
As a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategist, I've witnessed firsthand the limitations of conventional approaches to inclusion. Too often, well-intentioned efforts fall short, scratching the surface but failing to drive the deep, systemic change our organizations and communities deserve.
Despite billions invested in DEI training, consultants, and initiatives, studies show minimal progress in achieving true equity and inclusion within organizations. Why is that?
I believe it's because many current DEI strategies treat inclusion as an add-on or a separate set of initiatives running in parallel to the lion’s share of organizational life rather than fundamentally rethinking how we design and operate our systems, policies, and cultures. They put band-aids on deep wounds without addressing the root causes.
Moreover, I've seen DEI positioned as a niche priority rather than an imperative for overall organizational excellence. The underlying narrative is that DEI is about checking boxes, avoiding liability, and ensuring compliance - not about cultivating vibrant, innovative, human-centered cultures where everyone has a voice and can contribute their best to the organizational mission. This framing undermines DEI as a cultural and strategic business imperative for any organization that wants to attract top talent, drive innovation, and remain relevant in our rapidly evolving world.
Reconstructing Inclusion: A Call for Transformative Change
Driven by a growing frustration with the mainstream narrative surrounding DEI, the “Reconstructing Inclusion” podcast came to life. So much of the discourse felt surface-level, focused on check-box initiatives and cosmetic changes rather than grappling with the deep-rooted, systemic barriers to true inclusion. I knew there had to be another way – a way to peel back the layers, challenge assumptions, and reimagine what an authentically inclusive world could look like.
My vision for this podcast is to create a space for unfamiliar perspectives, contrarian voices, thought-provokers, and paradigm-shifters in the DEI space. A place where we could engage in candid, nuanced dialogue about the complexities and contradictions of this work without fear of stepping outside the confines of the mainstream narrative.
What sets “Reconstructing Inclusion” apart is its unwavering commitment to questioning assumptions, deconstructing existing narratives, and reconstructing more inclusive approaches. Through conversations with leading experts and on-the-ground insights, this podcast tackles DEI from a multidimensional perspective, exploring intersectionality, cultural intelligence, organizational dynamics, and the unintended consequences of well-intentioned but misguided efforts.
Here are a few highlights that make Reconstructing Inclusion worth exploring as a great resource for DEI practitioners:
Embracing Complexity: The podcast acknowledges that DEI work is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. We aim to discuss the intricate interplay between race, gender, culture, and power dynamics, encouraging listeners to move beyond simplistic solutions and embrace the full scope of these critical issues.
Inclusive Approach: Together with guests, we identified what a truly inclusive approach to DEI looks like - one that engages all stakeholders, fosters agency, and creates conditions for risk-taking and skill development. The podcast challenges DEI practitioners to reflect on their own "skin in the game" and work towards building genuine allyship and systemic change.
Cultural Intelligence: With guests like David Livermore, the podcast spotlights the critical importance of cultural intelligence (CQ) in navigating the complexities of a diverse and divided world. It offers insights into bridging cultural gaps, fostering shared humanity, and understanding the nuances of power dynamics across different contexts.
Data-Driven Insights: Episodes featuring guests from Diversity Atlas and organizational researchers like Dr. Starling David Hunter III underscore the value of intersectional data and network analysis in driving effective DEI strategies. The podcast explores how data can unveil hidden patterns, inform targeted interventions, and measure real progress.
Personal Narratives: While maintaining a scholarly and analytical lens, the podcast also weaves in personal narratives and lived experiences, reminding listeners of the human dimension at the heart of DEI work. Episodes featuring Harriett D. Johnson, my mother, and listening expert Raquel Ark offer profound lessons on presence, context, and connection.
Through engaging dialogues with leading thinkers and practitioners, we curated a multifaceted exploration of DEI. From unpacking the complexities of race and racialization to examining the role of data and cultural intelligence, this podcast has offered nuanced insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie at the heart of meaningful organizational change.
We highlighted the value of approaching DEI work with openness, intellectual humility, and a willingness to deconstruct existing paradigms to reconstruct more inclusive and equitable systems.
Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast S1E10: DEI Work Means Skin in the Game (Otherwise, it’s just posturing)
An Invitation to Continue the Conversation
Join me as we continue to deconstruct the shortcomings of traditional DEI strategies and co-create a vision for a more transformative, human-centered approach to inclusion. In the next season, my esteemed guests and I will challenge the status quo and dive deep into the reactive, supplemental nature of many DEI initiatives. We'll explore how to reclaim the profound potential of inclusion as a catalyst for collective growth, empowerment, and organizational change.
Together, we'll unpack the power of systems thinking in tackling complex inclusion challenges. We'll examine how to design inclusive structures, policies, and processes that cultivate generative cultures where every person can bring their authentic self to the table and thrive.
We'll also explore the role of leadership in driving lasting change, fostering care, collaboration, and a shared commitment to equity, and belonging. And we'll dive into the art of truly listening, centering the voices of those most impacted as we co-create inclusive spaces.
But this journey isn't just about theory – it's about action.
I'll share insights from my work with Inclusion Wins, where we take a people-centric approach to DEI, inspiring genuine buy-in and unlocking the collective contribution of all individuals.
The true value of Reconstructing Inclusion extends beyond the podcast itself. It serves as a call to action for all of us to embrace lifelong learning, remain open to different views, and continually examine our biases and assumptions.
DEI Conversations Beyond Echo Chambers
I hope this was helpful. . . Make it a great day! ✌🏿
In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, let’s discuss the current state and “the attacks” on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the need to redefine its contemporary frame. I talk about the concept of iatrogenic effects, drawing from the work of Ivan Illich, and its relevance in the DEI space. Why are self-reflection, intentional broadening, greater contact, and the promotion of agency in mitigating iatrogenic effects important in advancing the potential of DEI work?