Embracing Equity
As February draws to a close and March commences, we shift from Black HIstory Month to Women’s History Month. As a founding partner of a woman-owned organization, I have mixed feelings about these and other specially-designated months. On one hand, it is helpful to have a platform for and recognition of capabilities and accomplishments of these marginalized demographic groups; and on the other hand, it’s disappointing that there are still real and perceived negative racial and gender (and other) differences that need to be overcome. With this in mind, we are embracing the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day on March 8: Embrace Equity.
Equity means fairness and justice, acknowledging and adjusting to imbalances; it means respecting all people. To me, it means that everyone has value and deserves the same opportunities to achieve and thrive; it’s meeting people where they are and lifting them up with equality as a vision. Equity is approaching life from a place of abundance, a belief that there is more than enough to go around and that everyone is deserving.
At Core Endeavors we work with individuals and organizations through an equity lens. When coaching, we help people believe in their value, ask for what they need, and show up with confidence, as well as help folks see the impacts, implications and applications of their privilege. When consulting, we do so with consciousness toward diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, helping leaders create environments where everybody is seen, heard, valued and supported. You can help to further equity and equitable practices in your personal and professional circles by engaging in any of the following (each one can have a strong impact!):
When making decisions, ensure there is representation of all types and backgrounds of people who will be impacted—ensure that the “right” people are at the table and part of the conversation.
When sourcing people with specialized knowledge, skills, abilities or experience, cast a wide net—intentionally seek out those who may benefit most from the engagement.
Speak up to correct disparagement and misinformation of marginalized people/groups and let others know you won’t support what they are saying—take a stand.
Be aware of your biases and actively work to overcome them—challenge yourself and your beliefs.
Familiarize yourself with system inequalities and inequities that exist and do your part to help change and even eliminate them.
Publicly celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of those who are underrepresented.
Treat people as individuals with kindness, empathy and curiosity and refrain from making stereotyped assumptions.
It’s important to remember that not everyone starts from the same place or benefits from the same opportunities. And, lifting others up does not mean that you will be impacted negatively. Equity means that people get a chance in ways that both honor and support them. It’s up to all of us to dismantle what holds back any of us—we encourage you to do your part to create a more equitable world for all.
