Recipes for Equity

We often experience discomfort when having dialogues about race. Discomfort is inevitable. But remember: It is not talking about these issues that creates divisiveness. The divisiveness already exists in our society and (likely) in your organization and groups. It is through dialogue, especially uncomfortable dialogue, that healing and change begin. As you embark on your journey toward a more equitable organization, be open about your thoughts and feelings and do not just say what you think others want to hear.

Here are ten tips to help give you courage as you have these necessary conversations:

1. Don’t avoid the elephant in the room. Talk openly about equity to appeal to people’s conscious values and challenge their unconscious biases.
2. Acknowledge that we all have unconscious biases or unspoken stereotypes. We can’t help it, but we can help what we do about it.
3. The more we talk about inequity openly, the more we can make sure it doesn’t influence the way we treat people.
4. Remind people of the values we all share—no matter where our ancestors came from or what language they spoke.
5. We are stronger together when everyone can contribute.
6. Our diversity adds to our strength as communities.
7. Use analogies of cooperation and unity that people can relate to—i.e., community groups and teams.
8. Keep learning and asking questions! As you are having these conversations, don’t forget to keep examining your own biases and to keep listening to the voices and experiences of others.
9. Work across identities and support changes that increase opportunity for people of color through conversations, messaging, and action.
10. Ask questions.