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.

Navigating Workplaces Amid DEI Backlash: Ensuring Your Economic Safety and Success

Ensuring Your Success

As DEI initiatives face increasing challenges, it’s more important than ever for historically underrepresented workers to consider how they assess the economic safety and success offered by their workplaces. This article provides a detailed analysis of how to evaluate key factors such as fair compensation, career advancement opportunities, job security, and work-life balance. It also offers actionable resources, including specific questions to consider during the interview process or when evaluating your current job. These questions focus on assessing a company's commitment to diversity in its business strategy, transparency in pay practices, and support for career growth. Armed with these insights, you can better navigate the complexities of today’s workplace and secure your economic future.

Why We Suggest This: This article offers crucial guidance for historically underrepresented workers, helping them make informed decisions about their careers in an increasingly uncertain DEI landscape. The included questions provide practical tools for assessing whether a workplace truly supports diversity and economic safety.

Read more from Darein Burton at Perspectives on Leadership.

Policy Spotlight

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

Peggy Flanagan Could Be the First Woman Indigenous Governor and Her Policies Are Rooted in Equity

Equity-rooted Power Moves

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan has been a driving force behind transformative policies in Minnesota, including the Healthy Start Act and efforts to raise the minimum wage. Her commitment to advocating for children and families, particularly within Indigenous communities, has shaped her approach to leadership. As she potentially steps into the role of governor, Flanagan’s dedication to inclusivity and systemic change promises to bring more diverse voices into decision-making. Her work underscores the importance of policy that reflects the needs of all Minnesotans, especially those who have been historically marginalized.

Read more from Becky Z. Dernbach at Sahan Journal.

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.

DEI in High Demand but Action Falls Short, Edelman Report Finds

The latest Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report uncovers a significant demand for DEI initiatives in the workplace, even amid legal and cultural pushback. However, the report reveals a troubling gap between expectations and actions, particularly within government institutions. Businesses are now seen as the most trusted to lead racial justice efforts, but the report calls for a recommitment across all sectors. This comprehensive overview of DEI’s state underscores the critical need for stronger action to meet growing demands.

Read more from Isaiah Thompson at Nonprofit Quarterly.

DEI Roundup

• Kamala Harris’ Fundraising Success Highlights the Power of a Diversity-First Strategy: Kamala Harris’s campaign raised an astonishing $310 million in July, showcasing the power of a diversity-focused approach. By engaging directly with diverse voter groups through tailored messaging and virtual gatherings, Harris's strategy not only broke fundraising records but also empowered underrepresented communities. This success underscores the growing influence of diverse voters in American politics and could reshape how future campaigns connect with the electorate. Harris’s approach demonstrates that embracing diversity is not just ethical—it’s a winning formula. Read more from Doug Melville at Forbes.

• BIPOC Mentorship at University of Washington: A Model for Inclusive Workplaces: The University of Washington’s BIPOC Staff Mentorship Program is an innovative initiative aimed at increasing representation and fostering a sense of belonging among BIPOC professionals. By pairing participants with mentors who provide guidance and support, the program empowers staff to advance their careers while building community. This program, funded by the Diversity Seed Grant, serves as a model for how other institutions and workplaces can create effective allyship and professional development opportunities for marginalized groups. Read more from Michael Duke at Campus Reform.

• Divide and Conquer: The Economic Implications of Trump's Racial Tactics: Former President Donald Trump’s recent remarks questioning Vice President Kamala Harris’s racial identity exemplify a "divide and conquer" strategy that has deep economic implications. This tactic mirrors how certain minorities are positioned as "model minorities" under white power structures, gaining slight economic stability in exchange for quiet and conformity. For historically underrepresented workers and leaders, this story serves as a crucial reminder of how such divisive strategies are used to perpetuate inequity. Understanding and resisting these narratives is key to achieving more equitable economic policies and outcomes. Read more from Sandhya Dirks at NPR.

Voices of Empowerment

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

Thaddeus Arroyo is Embracing Risk and Empowering Communities

Thaddeus Arroyo’s journey from a young professional taking calculated risks to becoming AT&T’s chief strategy and development officer is a testament to the power of embracing challenges and stepping out of comfort zones. His leadership, rooted in the “art of the possible,” has not only driven his success but also fueled his commitment to bridging the digital divide. Arroyo’s work to ensure equitable access to technology and digital education, particularly in Hispanic communities, highlights how strategic leadership can empower individuals, companies, and society. His story inspires emerging leaders to take bold steps and contribute to broader societal progress.

Read more from Noah Johnson at Hispanic Executive.

Empowerment Roundup

• A $1 Billion Love Letter to Nearest Green—How Fawn Weaver Built a Whiskey Powerhouse: Fawn Weaver, the first Black woman CEO of a major spirit brand, turned her passion for history and whiskey into a $1 billion success story. Inspired by Nearest Green, an enslaved man who mentored Jack Daniel, Weaver founded Uncle Nearest to honor his legacy. Her new book, "Love & Whiskey," offers an in-depth look at Green's influence on the whiskey industry and the profound cultural impact of his expertise. Weaver's journey is a powerful testament to the importance of preserving Black history while breaking business barriers. Read more from Noah A. McGee at The Root.

• Simone Biles’ Triumph Redefines Success and Mental Health Advocacy: Simone Biles’ remarkable comeback at the 2024 Olympics, after prioritizing her mental health, is a powerful testament to the strength found in setting boundaries. Her journey not only challenges the "Strong Black Woman" stereotype but also serves as a beacon for historically underrepresented leaders and workers. Biles’ story empowers them to advocate for more inclusive and comprehensive mental health policies in the workplace, ensuring that personal well-being is prioritized alongside professional achievement. Her example shows that true success includes caring for mental health, and it’s time for workplaces to reflect that understanding. Read more from Anissa Durham at Word in Black.

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.

Fired for Being Trans: Liberty University’s Discriminatory Policies Under Fire

Ellenor Zinski was fired from Liberty University for “denying biological and chromosomal sex assigned at birth,” which the institution labeled a “sinful act.” Her case, now a lawsuit backed by the ACLU, challenges the university’s use of religious doctrine as a basis for employment discrimination. Zinski’s story underscores the systemic challenges faced by transgender individuals in hostile work environments and raises critical questions about the protections offered under Title VII. This case also highlights the troubling trend of using religion as a legal and economic cudgel against LGBTQ+ rights, a tactic bolstered by recent Supreme Court decisions.

Read more from Ryan Adamczeski at The Advocate.

Actionable Resources

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

Lessons from Apple Store’s First Union Contract: What Workers Need to Know

The first unionized Apple Store in the U.S., located in Towson, Maryland, has successfully negotiated a groundbreaking contract with the tech giant. This agreement, which includes a 10 percent wage increase over three years and guaranteed benefits, offers valuable insights for other workers considering unionization. The Towson workers’ persistence in countering employer narratives and securing their rights through collective bargaining shows that even in resistant industries, organized efforts can lead to significant gains. Their experience provides actionable strategies for white-collar and retail labor unions looking to achieve similar successes.

Read more from Noam Scheiber at The New York Times.

Resource Roundup

•  Empowering the Future: Investing in Girls and Gender-Expansive Youth of Color: Monique Couvson’s leadership at Grantmakers for Girls of Color (G4GC) is a powerful example of how targeted philanthropy can drive meaningful change. G4GC is a critical resource for those looking to invest in and support girls and gender-expansive youth of color or are part of these groups and need a helping hand. By emphasizing reciprocity and community-led decision-making, G4GC ensures that the needs of these marginalized groups are met effectively. Initiatives like the Future Economy Lab and the Black Girl Freedom Fund serve as actionable resources, providing models for how philanthropy can be more inclusive and impactful. Read more from Rebekah Barber at Nonprofit Quarterly.

• Bridging the Gap: Financial Inclusion as a Path to Profitability: Financial inclusion isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a strategic opportunity for financial institutions. This article highlights how embracing financial inclusion can drive profitability, especially by tapping into underserved markets. A key resource mentioned is the National Association of Minority Mortgage Bankers of America (NAMMBA) Certified Community Lender (CCL) Designation, which helps connect historically underrepresented homebuyers with non-predatory lenders. For those looking to learn more about actionable strategies and resources in financial inclusion, this article offers valuable insights. Read more from Suresh Balasubramanian at CUInsight.

• The New AI Gold Rush: Navigating Modern-Day Tech Monopolies: As tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon dominate the AI landscape, they’re employing a new strategy: acquiring talent and technology without owning start-ups outright. This approach mirrors the monopolistic tactics of the oil barons in the early 20th century, raising concerns about the concentration of power in today’s tech industry. If you're a historically underrepresented worker eyeing a startup opportunity, it's crucial to ask about investor backgrounds and ensure that employee equity is part of your package. Stay informed to protect your interests and make empowered decisions. Read more from Erin Griffith and Cade Metz at The New York Times.

Cultural Highlight

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

Imilla Skate: Reclaiming Identity Through Skateboarding in Bolivia

The Imilla Skate collective in Cochabamba, Bolivia, is redefining what it means to be a skater by merging traditional indigenous attire with the modern sport of skateboarding. Wearing pollera skirts and bowler hats, these young women are not just challenging stereotypes—they’re celebrating their cultural heritage and reclaiming their identity. Their story is one of resistance, empowerment, and community, as they transform neglected spaces into vibrant hubs of activity and inspire a new generation of women skaters across Bolivia.

Read more from Raina Vale at Luz Media.