Actionable Resources

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

A Guide to Help You Evaluate Workplace Inclusivity

In today’s polarized workplaces, it’s essential for historically underrepresented workers to ensure their work environment is genuinely striving to be inclusive. In our latest Perspectives on Leadership original, we help you consider how to assess an employers’ DEI commitments beyond public statements. Consider practical resources like public DEI reports, employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, and the presence of internal support systems such as ERGs and mentorship programs. Diverse leadership teams and transparent DEI updates are key indicators of a welcoming workplace. Equip yourself with these tools to navigate and thrive in your career.

This is part 1 of a 3-part series. Read more from Darein Burton at Perspectives Media.

Voices of Empowerment

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

From Picket Lines to Policy—Abdirahman Muse's Journey

Abdirahman Muse, known for his tireless advocacy for East African workers in Minnesota, has taken on a new role as a senior adviser in the U.S. Department of Labor. Muse’s leadership at the Awood Center led to significant legislative victories, including improved safety and transparency in warehouse working conditions. Now, he’s poised to influence national labor policies, continuing to champion the rights of marginalized workers. Muse’s journey exemplifies the power of grassroots activism and strategic policy work to create lasting change.

Read more from Joey Peters at Sahan Journal.

Voices of Empowerment Roundup

• Resilience in the Face of Tragedy:  Jerrian Reedy's path to medicine was shaped by personal losses including his father, aunt, and grandmother, driving his desire to prevent others from similar heartbreak. Despite the challenges, he is now a medical student at the University of Mississippi, where less than 10% of doctors are Black, despite nearly 40% of the state's population being Black. Supportive programs like the African American Visit Day and PROMISE provide essential mentorship and resources, helping underrepresented students overcome systemic barriers. Reedy's journey underscores the importance of diversity in medicine and the ongoing debates around DEI initiatives. By Joy Liwanag, Medical News Today.

• Empowering Autism Through Fashion—The Blue Runway Movement: Linda Carpenter-Grantham and her son Eric are transforming the lives of individuals with autism through their nonprofit, The Blue Runway for Autism. Fashion became a powerful tool for Eric, boosting his self-confidence and inspiring the creation of fashion shows that celebrate positive self-image and acceptance. Beyond the runway, they advocate for systemic change, pushing for "Eric’s ID law" to help law enforcement better understand and handle hidden disabilities. Linda and Eric's efforts are a testament to the impact of representation. Read more by Haniyah Philogene at The Grio.

• Empowering Latinx Communities: Julián Castro, now CEO of the Latino Community Foundation, is driving economic opportunities and civic engagement for Latinos, with plans to expand efforts beyond California. Castro emphasizes the critical role Latino voters will play in the 2024 elections and the importance of nonpartisan efforts to mobilize them. He also highlights the need for strong workforce development programs and support for Latino entrepreneurs, ensuring they have access to capital and resources to succeed. Read more from Frannie Sprouls in Hispanic Executive.

• Black Farmers Call for Tractor Supply CEO’s Resignation Over DEI Cuts:  The National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) is demanding the resignation of Tractor Supply's CEO after the company announced it would eliminate its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. This decision followed pressure from conservative activists and has sparked backlash among the company’s diverse customer base. NBFA President John Boyd Jr. criticized the move as regressive, threatening to boycott if changes aren’t made. The controversy underscores the growing challenges consumer-facing businesses face in balancing political and social pressures. Read more from Wyatte Grantham-Philips at Associated Press.

• Top Woman in Business Dedicates Her Career to Disability Inclusion:  Rita M. Gardner, President and CEO of Melmark Inc., has been recognized among the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts for the sixth year in a row. Leading Melmark’s $110-million multi-state operations, Gardner is a powerhouse in advocating for those on the autism spectrum and with intellectual disabilities. Her work in pay equity and legislative advocacy showcases practical steps to drive social change. Gardner’s advice? “Our work isn’t just a job, but a responsibility to make a positive impact.” Get inspired by her journey and learn how you can make a difference too. Read more from DiversityComm.

• Samsung Electronics Union Launches Indefinite Strike in South Korea:  In a powerful demonstration of collective action, Samsung Electronics unionized workers in South Korea have launched an indefinite strike. Representing 30,000 workers, the union is pressing for better wages and work conditions, including a 3.5% wage increase and changes to the bonus pay system. Despite ongoing negotiations since January, management has been unwilling to meet the union’s demands. Read more from Kwanwoo Jun at The Wall Street Journal.

• Highlights from the ForbesBLK Summit 2024:  The ForbesBLK Summit 2024 in Atlanta united Black entrepreneurs and leaders to share strategies for advancing Black capital and community. Stacey Abrams emphasized the need for resilience and innovation amid attacks on DEI initiatives, while Fantasia Barrino-Taylor shared her journey of overcoming financial hardships to build her own business. Young leaders like Caden Harris and Zoe Oli inspired attendees with their plans to promote financial literacy and confidence among Black youth. The Summit reinforced the power of mentorship, networking, and continuous learning to drive success and empowerment. Read more at ForbesBLK Summit.

• Celebrating Two-Spirit Identity:  For centuries, two-spirit individuals have faced violence and assimilation, yet they were historically honored within Indigenous communities as keepers of traditions, storytellers, healers, and warriors. Today, activists are working to reclaim their autonomy and preserve their cultural legacy through activism, artistry, and social media platforms. Organizations like the Native Justice Coalition are establishing programs to decolonize gender roles and promote social and racial justice for Native people. The article calls for the US to challenge its harmful colonial legacy by passing Senate Bill 1723 and House Bill 7227 to establish a federal commission dedicated to racial justice and healing for Native people. Read more from authors Abbey Koenning-Rutherford and Bria Nelson, Human Rights Watch.

• Unbroken Blossoms—Unearthing Hidden Histories in Hollywood:  Discover the untold stories of perserverance and success in Hollywood with "Unbroken Blossoms." This powerful play shines a light on the overlooked contributions of Asian American cultural consultants in the early 1900s, who fought against yellowface, stereotypes, and discrimination. Their efforts paved the way for future generations, reflecting ongoing challenges and triumphs in representation. Join us in celebrating their legacy and the progress we continue to make today. Read more from Erin Chew at AsAmNews.

Cultural Highlights

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

Selena Gomez’s Trans Gangster Film 'Emilia Pérez' Receives Release Date and Trailer

Selena Gomez’s new film "Emilia Pérez," described as a "masterpiece" by critics, follows a trans cartel leader seeking gender-affirming surgery. The musical features an impressive cast, including Zoe Saldaña and Karla Sofía Gascón. The film earned a 10-minute standing ovation at Cannes and its female ensemble cast won Best Actress. "Emilia Pérez" will be available on Netflix UK and US on November 13th.

Read more from Emily Chudy at PinkNews.

The Culture Roundup

• Rich Narratives of Queer Latinx Authors: Explore the vibrant intersection of Latino and LGBTQ cultures with this curated list of ten must-read books by queer Latinx authors. These stories, ranging from fiction to nonfiction and graphic novels, celebrate diverse voices and challenge conventional notions of gender and sexuality. Each book highlights the unique contributions of queer Latinx authors, fostering a deeper understanding of inclusivity and acceptance. Dive into these narratives with writer Melaina Cecilia De La Cruz for Hispanic Executive.

• Latin Music Stars Set to Shine at Premios Juventud 2024: Premios Juventud 2024 will feature performances by Camila, Darell, DJ Adoni, Emilia, Los Ángeles Azules, Luar La L, Lunay, Prince Royce, Wisin, and Yovngchimi. Highlights include Camila debuting their new single "Mía" and Los Ángeles Azules performing "Perdonarte ¿Para Qué?" with Emilia. The event, hosted by Wisin, Lele Pons, and Clarissa Molina, will air live on Univision and ViX on July 25. Read more by Isabela Raygoza at Billboard.

• Celebrating Queer Icons—20 Queer Women & Nonbinary Celebs Who Rock Tattoos: Out Magazine highlights 20 queer women and nonbinary celebrities with stunning tattoos, from Cara Delevingne to Rina Sawayama. These celebs use body art to express their identities, passions, and personal journeys. The article celebrates the intersection of queerness and tattoo culture, showcasing how tattoos can be both beautiful and meaningful. Read more by Mey Rude at Out Magazine.

• ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’ to Be Screened at Academy Museum: A restored 4K version of The Bridge on the River Kwai will be screened at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on July 7. Part of the Oscar Sundays series, this WWII epic won multiple Oscars in 1958, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Alec Guinness. Sessue Hayakawa, nominated for Best Supporting Actor, stars as the POW camp commandant. The event celebrates the film's enduring legacy. Read more by Rafu Reports at Rafu Shimpo.

Cultural Highlights Closer: Abraham Lincoln's Romantic Relationships Explored in New Documentary

A new documentary, Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln, explores the theory that Abraham Lincoln was gay, featuring never-before-seen photographs and letters. The film, set for release on September 6, includes insights from historians like Hugh Ryan and examines Lincoln's intimate relationships with men, challenging traditional views on sexuality. The documentary aims to provide a deeper understanding of Lincoln's private life and America's historical intolerance.

 Read more by Mathew Rodriguez at Them.