The Diversity and Inclusion Committee launched its first program on Saturday, January 9 2021 titled Diversity 101.
Access to a strong network of professional women is a signature benefit of the AAUW membership, and it is especially important during these difficult times. By offering these innovative virtual initiatives, AAUW continues its commitment to diversity by helping our members stay connected with a community of supportive, inspiring women.
Last year, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) recognized that now more than ever, diversity is key to continuing to attract and retain members and to celebrate the diversity that all individuals bring. Locally, this message resonated within the AAUW Greensboro Branch as they too understood the importance of building a culturally competent membership and a strong diversity program. Laura Tew, Greensboro Branch President, named Everlena Diggs as Diversity Chair. “Diversity is having a seat at the table. Inclusion is having a voice. And belonging is having that voice be heard,” Everlena Diggs, AAUW Greensboro Chairperson of Diversity and Inclusion Committee said.
“Diversity is having a seat at the table. Inclusion is having a voice. And belonging is having that voice be heard.”
Shortly after, four additional branch members committed to the mission and strategic goals of the national organization rounded out the committee and led the charge to create and organize the first Diversity program. These committed individuals - Peggy Knox, Tiffany Jacobs, Diedre Hobbs and Sally Askew - joined Everlena Diggs to form the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. The first order of business was to create and organize a diversity program to take branch members and community partners on a deep dive into the world of Diversity and Inclusion coupled with an open yet respectful dialogue on the nuances of diversity. Next, Diversity and Inclusion expert, Kris Britton, was tagged to facilitate this very important dialogue coined as "courageous conversations" intended to navigate meeting participants through their vulnerable moments and share in their lived experiences. "If you live in the United States, racism, bias, prejudice, discrimination is baked in the cake. And we're all in the cake.” Kris Britton professed. Kris delicately navigated the diversity conversation that inspired, motivated and educated the participants and reinforced the mission to bring positive change through inclusive practices.
"In you live in the United States, racism, bias, prejudice and discrimination is baked in the cake. And we're all in the cake.” - Kris Britton, Diversity Consultant and Founder of Grapple USA & CEO of Lucky Dog Volleyball.
The meeting participants of the first diversity program walked away with the necessary tools needed to bring diversity to the forefront in their homes and communities. Modestly speaking, the program was a success. Boldly professing, this program has changed lives.
DIVERSITY 101: Downloadable Content and Video
The Diversity and Inclusion Committee realizes that the work of diversity cannot be relegated within the confines of one meeting, so the following resources have been made available so that you might bring change during your journey and thus leave this world in a better place than we found it.
Feel free to revisit the zoom meeting to learn more on how to have meaningful and productive conversations.
Download the slide presentation to explore the meaning of on-trend diversity concepts and definitions.
Engage in the "diversity homework" by downloading reflection exercises meant to address inclusion factors to foster actionable goals and strategies.
Contact the Diversity and Inclusion Committee to support your moments of self reflection by being available to your questions, thoughts or concerns.
VIDEO (video of actual virtual diversity meeting held on Jan 9 2021)
SLIDE PRESENTATION (downloadable copy of slide presentation shared at virtual diversity meeting held on Jan 9 2021)
DIVERSITY HOMEWORK (downloadable copy of a couple of self reflection activities prepared by Diversity and Inclusion expert Tiffany Jacobs)
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