Today more than ever , conversations around diversity , equity , and inclusion ( DEI ) are being had by everyone from CEOs to educators , and care providers . DEI is not merely a buzzword ; it represents a fundamental shift in the way we approach individuals and communities , acknowledging the importance of their unique backgrounds , perspectives , and experiences .
Allowing Our Truths
Nona Lee is an inspiring thought leader in the world of DEI .
After a successful career in law as the Chief Legal Officer for the Arizona Diamondbacks , Nona was called to a different path . Following the murder of George Floyd in 2020 , Nona sought to understand and make change . She now is the founder of Truth DEI Consulting , helping teams and organizations to uncover their DEI truths , and the truth is we all have work to do . Understanding our biases , positionality , and privilege is just the start . Bringing an awareness and intentionality to every space that we enter is essential to creating change .
Awareness is the first step to taking action . Creating space for honest and open conversation – free from anger or judgment – can be crucial in understanding the intricacies of the human experience .
Acknowledging Disparity
India Harville is a disability justice speaker and advocate , who our agency had the pleasure of receiving crucial training from to expand our understanding of the compounding disparities for disabled people of color . Following our inspiring and eyeopening time spent with her , I wanted to dive deeper . Speaking with India unveiled the deeper implications of bias and
discrimination . Through our work at Community Solutions , we know that trauma is a huge contributor to negative health outcomes . In my conversation with India , this was reaffirmed . The generational trauma that marginalized groups carry is immense and manifests physically and psychologically , leaving lasting repercussions .
Through my conversations with these women , it is evident that DEI is more than a trend or a marketing strategy . It is about breaking down barriers and challenging the way internalized racism is embedded within the fabric of our culture and dictates so much of our social norms . It ' s about celebrating our differences , understanding our shared humanity , and dismantling barriers that hinder progress . Acknowledging disparity and allowing our truths is the first step to creating more inclusive and equitable communities that honor and celebrate diversity .
Melissa Santos is a Sr . Director at Community Solutions , a behavioral health organization serving Santa Clara County where she leads their CS Learning Training Institute . Her Pathways to Resilience podcast brings learnings and conversations about trauma , wellness , and resilience to the community . Listen in on Apple , Google , and Spotify , and learn more at : www . CommunitySolutions . org
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