DEI Insights Corner

Discover the latest in DEI innovations and strategies. Every historically underrepresented worker and ally should know best practices and emerging trends for inclusive workplaces.

From Solidarity to Action: Integrating Historical Allyship into Corporate DEI Programs

Challenging the "Crabs in a Barrel" Narrative

We've heard many historically underrepresented workers describe intercommunity relations as "crabs in a barrel." This metaphor suggests that when one member of a marginalized group tries to climb up or succeed, others will pull them back down, preventing any progress. While it is true that intercommunity solidarity is crucial, the lack of cohesion is very overblown.  In fact, studies show the exact opposite. Historically underrepresented groups are so cohesive that studies show they view their personal success as linked with community success. In reality, there are numerous examples of solidarity and support within and across historically underrepresented communities that can serve as powerful models for collective advancement.

This means we should question who is behind this narrative.  Wondering if our communities lack solidarity distracts us from setting a higher career value activity like raising the bar for White allyship at work. True progress requires not only intercommunity support but also the active involvement of allies from outside these communities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, White people make up approximately 60% of the population, while Latinx individuals account for about 19%, Black individuals make up about 13%, and Asian individuals represent around 6%. With Whites holding most of the nation’s wealth.  In professionals contexts, these numbers are even more skewed with leadership teams in the fortune 500 being over 80% white and male. And large percentages of historically underrepresented workers experience discrimination at work.

Historical Lessons on White Allyship

Tim Wise, in his conversation with Kimberlé Crenshaw on the "Intersectionality Matters!" podcast, highlights the importance of white allies knowing and embracing a radical history of White solidarity with marginalized communities. A historical awareness of these traditions provides a foundation for current and future efforts, showing that white allyship is not about leading but about supporting and amplifying the voices of those who have been historically silenced. Read more in our LinkedIn article titled, “Equity in Business: Lessons from Tim Wise and Kimberlé Crenshaw.”

As Wise aptly puts it, "Allyship is about leveraging one's privilege to challenge systemic inequalities and standing in solidarity with those who have been historically disenfranchised." This principle is crucial for effective allyship, ensuring that the focus remains on the needs and perspectives of historically underrepresented workers.

Integrating Historical Allyship into Learning and Development

You don’t have to try to change views on your own. Advocate for systemic change that can lead to better allyship. Consider programming and continued learning around the supporting cast exemplary White allyship.

1. Educational Workshops and Seminars

Description: Organize workshops and seminars that focus on the contributions of historical figures who demonstrated exceptional allyship. These sessions can be part of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training programs.

Implementation Ideas:

• Guest Speakers: Invite historians, scholars, or descendants of these figures to speak about their legacy and its relevance today.

• Interactive Sessions: Use role-playing or scenario-based learning to help participants understand the challenges and actions of these allies.

2. Incorporating Historical Case Studies in Training

Description: Develop case studies based on the lives and actions of these historical figures and moments to be included in leadership and DEI training materials.

3. Consider Digital Learning

Description: Create digital learning modules that employees can access at their convenience, focusing on the history of allyship and its importance.

Effective white allyship involves challenging systemic inequalities and standing in solidarity with marginalized communities, even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient. By learning from historical examples and applying these lessons to today's workplace, white allies can help create environments where all employees feel valued and empowered.

Voices of Empowerment

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

Discover the ‘Everywhere is Queer’ App

Launched by Charlie Sprinkman in January 2022, the 'Everywhere is Queer' app maps over 13,000 LGBTQ+-owned businesses and resources worldwide, fostering a strong sense of community. With over 80,000 downloads and features like a job board and private Discord server, this app provides crucial support and visibility for queer entrepreneurs, especially in areas with anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.

Read more by Darreonna Davis at The 19^th.

Voices of Empowerment Roundup

• Championing Women Business Owners: Over 200 women entrepreneurs gathered at the National Association of Women Business Owners' NAWBO Days in Washington D.C., engaging with legislative decision-makers and celebrating achievements. Highlights included the unveiling of the 2024 Advocacy Agenda, which aims to support sustainable women-owned businesses, and the announcement the 2024 Woman Business Owner of the Year. Read more at DiversityComm.

• Women Call Out Shrinkflation on Menstrual Products: In a viral TikTok video, Melissa Simonsen highlights how shrinkflation has led to smaller menstrual products, causing confusion and health concerns among users. Despite Tampax's defense citing FDA regulations, women are noticing the reduced size and effectiveness of pads and tampons. More by Yamily Habib at Fierce.

• Gary Teen Starts Clothing Line: Amir Watson, an 18-year-old high school graduate from Gary, Indiana, launched the clothing line, MUGEN AMOUR, to offer unique, handcrafted pieces that stand out. Inspired by his entrepreneurial parents and supported by his community, Watson's brand has quickly gained popularity. Read more by Maddy Franklin at Capital B.

• Ugandan LGBTQIA+ Activists Fight Draconian Laws: Following Uganda's anti-homosexuality law, activists like Shawn Mugisha and Linda Mutesi continue their struggle against increasing violence and discrimination. Despite setbacks, these activists remain committed to advocacy, emphasizing the need to divest from state structures and support and affirm LGBTQIA+ in Uganda. Read more from Lydia Namubiru at Service95.

• CLAGS Honors Alok Vaid-Menon: CLAGS hosted the 8th Annual Jose Esteban Munoz Awards, honoring Alok Vaid-Menon for their contributions to transgender non-conforming activism. Alok shared insights on the power of humor and imagination in activism, emphasizing the need for community and joy in LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Watch the conversation at CUNY Graduate Center.

• Championing Latino Representation in Finance: Brenda Tarjan and Lisa Garcia Drake of SageView Advisory Group are committed to demystifying retirement advisory and championing Latino representation, conducting educational meetings in Spanish and co-chairing SageLatinos, an inclusive employee resource group. Learn more from Noah Johnson at Hispanic Executive.

Cultural Highlights

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

Nicola Coughlan Releases Viral Single for LGBTQ+ Charities

Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan is turning her viral moment into a force for good by releasing the remix of her interview clip, "SHOES… MORE SHOES," with proceeds going to Not A Phase and the Trevor Project. Produced by Ellis Miah, the club-ready track supports trans rights in the U.K. and provides crisis support for queer and trans youth in the U.S., showcasing how celebrity influence can drive meaningful change.

Read her interview with Abby Monteil on Them.

The Culture Roundup

• Documentary 'The Debutants' Premieres at Tribeca: "The Debutants," directed by Contessa Gayles and produced by NBC News Studio, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, celebrating Black girlhood through the cotillion experience. The documentary follows three young women as they navigate financial management, family tensions, and self-discovery, highlighting the challenges and beauty of their transition into adulthood in a traditionally white, gendered, and class-bound ritual. Read more from Jeroslyn JoVonn on Black Enterprise.

• Celebrating Lady Irene Gandy: Lady Irene Gandy, an 80-year-old trailblazer in the Broadway scene, has been a publicist, press agent, and producer for over 50 years, earning numerous accolades including the Tony Honors for Excellence in Theatre. Known for her advocacy for both the Black and LGBTQ+ communities, Gandy continues to inspire with her remarkable career, fashion line, and dedication to uplifting underrepresented voices in the theater industry. Read more about from Linda Armstrong on New York Amsterdam News.

• Elite Black-Owned Swimwear Brands: These elite Black-owned swimwear brands, including Nakimuli, Arrow + Phoenix, Melissa Simone, Lemlem, Asherah Swimwear, Ego Swim, and Matte Collection, offer stylish and inclusive designs to make you look elegant and feel comfortable this summer. Check them out on Black Enterprise.

• World Refugee Day Celebrated at Edmonds College: Edmonds College hosted the Second Annual World Refugee Day, drawing over 150 attendees to honor the resilience and contributions of refugees in Snohomish County. The event featured speeches, cultural performances, and a buffet of international foods, emphasizing community support and the importance of advocating for refugee rights and inclusion. Check out picture of the celebration on Edmonds News.