Weekly Analysis: What You Need To Know

Your essential guide to navigating today's complex landscape, offering insights on news and trends that impact underrepresented workers' careers and communities.

Don’t Survive Your Career, Thrive.

Our journey through navigating your career during a DEI backlash has reached its powerful conclusion! In the final installment of our series, we reveal actionable strategies to not just survive but thrive in your career. Part 3 dives into how you can leverage your newness, build a robust support network, navigate complex workplace dynamics, maintain personal well-being, and foster continuous professional growth.

Curious to learn more? The first two strategies are available in our latest LinkedIn article, but if you’re eager to access the final three strategies and our exclusive checklist for career success, it’s time to upgrade to our premium newsletter.

Don’t miss out on the chance to support our mission to empower historically underrepresented workers and leaders and get great premium content like this full guide and checklist. Subscribe to our premium newsletter today!

Voices of Empowerment

Success for everyone: Get inspired by the achievements of everyday underrepresented Americans and find your own path to success.

Betty A. Bridges Leaves Legacy of Empowerment On and Off Screen

Betty A. Bridges, known for her roles in Good Times and Diff’rent Strokes, wasn’t just a television star—she was a beacon of empowerment. After a successful 40-year acting career, she co-founded Kane Bridge Academy in Los Angeles, offering free acting classes to minority youth. Her mentorship helped shape the careers of talents like Nia Long and Regina King. Betty’s legacy is a powerful testament to the impact one can have by lifting others up.

Read more from Tomas Kassahun at Blavity.

Empowerment Roundup

• From NFL Star to Culinary Icon—Tobias Dorzon’s Inspiring Journey: Tobias Dorzon, once known for his speed on the NFL field, has reinvented himself as a top chef, blending his diverse cultural heritage into his culinary creations. From his Liberian roots to Italian and Asian influences, Dorzon’s journey from gridiron to kitchen showcases the power of passion and perseverance. His story is a powerful reminder that embracing your heritage and following your dreams can lead to success in unexpected places. Read more from Frank Dobbins III at UPROXX.

• LGBTQ+ and Disabled Athletes Shine at the 2024 Paralympics: The 2024 Paralympics features 28 remarkable LGBTQ+ women and trans athletes whose stories of perseverance are as powerful as their athletic achievements. Competing at the intersection of disability and LGBTQ+ identities, these athletes are breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a champion. Their presence in the Paralympics highlights the importance of visibility and representation, proving that embracing one’s true self is a strength, not a limitation. Read more from Natalie at Autostraddle.

Cultural Highlights

Celebrate diverse voices and cultural contributions in art, literature, music, and media and be multicultural smarty pants. 😊

James Brown's Estate Builds A Legacy of Soul and Power

James Brown, "The Godfather of Soul," left behind more than just music; he left a blueprint for overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. Now, his estate, purchased for $90 million, is set to become a museum that honors his life and career. Brown’s journey from humble beginnings to a music legend highlights the untapped potential of Black music businesses, often underestimated and overlooked due to systemic discrimination. His story reminds us of the immense wealth and cultural power that can be achieved when barriers are broken.

Read more from Mahalia Otshudy at The Root.

The Culture Roundup

• Celebrate Patsy Mink’s Legacy at East West Players: On September 8, 2024, East West Players will host the world premiere of Patsy, a powerful play about Rep. Patsy Takemoto Mink, the first woman of color in Congress and a key figure behind Title IX. Written by Alison Minami and directed by John Miyasaki, this benefit performance supports EWP’s Arts Education programs, which aim to empower the next generation of diverse artists. Don't miss this opportunity to honor Mink’s legacy and experience a vital piece of cultural storytelling. Read more from Rafu Shimpo.

• Pankaj Mishra Wins Prestigious Canadian Writing Award: Celebrated Indian author Pankaj Mishra has been awarded the 2024 Weston International Award for his exceptional contributions to nonfiction. Known for his deep explorations of the Global South, Western imperialism, and contemporary spirituality, Mishra's work masterfully weaves history, philosophy, and criticism to shed light on the complexities of identity and belonging. His recognition underscores the power of literature in challenging dominant narratives and enriching global cultural discourse. Read more on India West.

• Apple TV+ Showcases Queer Stories with High-Quality Content: Apple TV+ may be a smaller player in the streaming world, but it's making a big impact with its diverse and visually stunning shows featuring queer characters. From the inventive Dickinson to the heartwarming Mythic Quest and the complex For All Mankind, these series bring much-needed representation to the screen. They not only entertain but also challenge stereotypes and celebrate LGBTQ+ identities. When we read this article through the lens of cultural representation, it’s clear that these shows are essential for fostering inclusivity in media. Read more from Riese at Autostraddle.

Wait, Did They Just Say That?

Microaggressions, or just plain aggression. This section is for all the times you’ve wondered if your work colleague, your fellow student, or your boss…really just said that. Write-in to us at [email protected] and we might anonymously share your story in the newsletter.

The Acolyte: Facing Bigotry in the Battle for Representation

The Acolyte—a Star Wars spinoff led by Amandla Stenberg—was more than just a show; it was a bold stand for diversity and inclusion. Unfortunately, it faced a barrage of hate before it even aired, with targeted attacks aimed at its LGBTQ+ and diverse cast. These actions are part of a broader effort to dismantle DEI, CRT, and LGBTQ+ initiatives, falsely framing them as handouts rather than deserved opportunities. The cancellation of The Acolyte is a sobering reminder of the ongoing fight for representation in media. Read more from Mathew Rodriguez at Them.

When we read this article through the lens of historically underrepresented workers, it’s clear that these attacks are not just about one show—they’re part of a larger intent to strip away opportunities that should be recognized as earned, not given. Supporting diverse media is crucial in the battle against these regressive forces.

Community Connections

Explore events and networks that empower underrepresented professionals with support and crucial career-advancing opportunities.

Join the Fight for Gender Liberation March in DC

The Gender Liberation Movement is calling on LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to unite in Washington, DC, on September 14th for the Gender Liberation March. With a focus on securing abortion rights and gender-affirming care, this march is more than just a protest—it's a powerful community gathering. Led by seasoned organizers like Raquel Willis, this event offers an opportunity to connect, empower, and take collective action as critical elections approach. If you're in the DC area or can make the trip, this is your chance to stand with a movement fighting for our future.

 Read more from Nikki Aye at The Advocate.

Community Connections Roundup

• Fort Berthold Farmers Market: A Hub of Community and Tradition: The Fort Berthold Reservation’s farmers market in Parshall, North Dakota, has become a cherished community tradition, where locals gather to share fresh produce, baked goods, and homemade preserves. Organized by Joyce Waldock, this market not only showcases the rich agricultural heritage of the area but also fosters strong community bonds. With vendors offering everything from rhubarb pies to pickled vegetables, the market is a true celebration of local flavors and neighborly connection. If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and experience the warmth and tradition of this local gem. Read more from Buffalo’s Fire.

• Welcoming Immigrant Families through Summer Camp Experience: Camp Colectiva, an initiative by Colectiva Bilingüe and The Loppet Foundation, offers a welcoming summer camp experience for newly arrived immigrant children in Minneapolis, particularly from Ecuador. This camp is more than just outdoor fun—it’s a vital resource for families adjusting to life in a new country. By providing opportunities to connect with nature and each other, Camp Colectiva helps families build a supportive community as they navigate their new environment. Read more from Andrew Hazzard at Sahan Journal.

Actionable Resources

Empower your life and career with targeted strategies and tools to overcome systemic barriers and achieve your career and personal goals.

Empowering the Next Generation with PRSA Silicon Valley's Commitment to Diversity

PRSA Silicon Valley recently awarded $2,500 scholarships to four diverse students pursuing careers in public relations and communications. This initiative is part of a broader effort to close the gap between talent and opportunity, ensuring that diverse voices have a platform in the industry. However, as scholarships like these become more critical, they also face increasing threats. Far-right groups are actively targeting multicultural offices, venture capital for minority-owned businesses, and scholarship funds to cut off opportunities for historically underrepresented communities. These attacks aim to stifle diversity from education to the workforce, underscoring the importance of initiatives like PRSA Silicon Valley’s scholarship program.

 Read more on Global Newswire.

Resource Roundup

• Comun is A Neobank Tailored for Immigrants Raises $21.5M: Comun, a Latino-founded neobank designed for immigrants, has just raised $21.5 million in Series A funding, reflecting its rapid growth and commitment to accessible banking. With no fees or balance requirements, Comun is expanding its services, including remittance programs and the largest cash deposit network in the U.S. If you're looking for banking services tailored to your needs, Comun is an essential resource to consider. Read more on Finextra.

• Morehouse is Empowering Rural Maternal Care with New Doula Initiative: In response to Georgia’s alarming maternal mortality rates, the Morehouse School of Medicine has launched a groundbreaking Perinatal Patient Navigators program, training Black doulas to provide essential support to expectant mothers in rural areas. This program offers a lifeline to communities lacking adequate maternity care, equipping doulas with the tools to improve pregnancy outcomes, reduce stress, and connect families with vital resources. For those in need of culturally competent care or looking to make a meaningful impact, this initiative is a beacon of hope. Read more from Jess Mador at WABE.

Policy Spotlight

Stay updated on key policy changes and legislation affecting your workplace rights and opportunities.

Apache Stronghold Fights for Sacred Land at the Supreme Court

Apache Stronghold is petitioning the U.S. Supreme Court to stop the development of the Oak Flat copper mine, a project that threatens sacred Apache land in Arizona. The group argues that the land transfer violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and an 1852 treaty, marking a significant legal battle over Indigenous rights and environmental justice. As the group embarks on a prayer journey across the country, visiting communities impacted by similar projects, they emphasize that this fight is not just about land—it's about protecting religious freedom and cultural heritage from corporate exploitation.

 Read more from Noel Lyn Smith on Indian Country Today.

Community Connections Roundup

• Replacing DEI With Pluralism on College Campuses: As debates over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs intensify on college campuses, this opinion piece argues that many current DEI initiatives [DB1] may be counterproductive, reinforcing divisions rather than fostering true inclusion. The authors, Paul Brest and Emily J. Levine of Stanford University, propose a new pluralistic approach that focuses on critical thinking, respectful dialogue, and the cultivation of a sense of belonging for all students. This alternative framework aims to empower students by teaching them how to engage constructively with diverse perspectives, rather than imposing rigid identity categories or ideological beliefs. Read more from The New York Times.

• Governor's CRT Ban is a New Chapter in the Far-Right’s War on Pluralism and Multicultural Leadership / Equity: Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry’s executive order banning the teaching of Critical Race Theory (CRT) in K-12 schools is the latest move in a far-right campaign to stifle cross-racial understanding and pluralism. This executive order, praised by some and criticized by others, is part of a broader backlash against the work of scholars like Dr. Kimberlé Crenshaw, whose research on intersectionality and CRT became a target following the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. Legal experts note that CRT is rarely taught before graduate school, making the order more about political posturing than practical policy. Yet, it could have chilling effects on how race and history are taught in Louisiana classrooms. Read more from WVUE.

• $4 Million Federal Boost for Migrant Support in King County: Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal has secured over $4 million in federal funding to support migrants in King County, Washington. This significant policy move will aid in providing essential services such as food, shelter, and medical care, particularly for migrants from Congo and Venezuela. Jayapal's continued advocacy ensures that asylum seekers are treated with dignity and receive the support they need during their transition. Read more from on India-West.