October 24, 2021
● Define and understand the terms: diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“Diversity is expressed in myriad forms, including race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, language, culture, national origin, values, religious commitments, age, (dis)ability status, and political perspective.
Equity is equal opportunity for all persons. Being equitable means not discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, height, weight, or veteran status.
Inclusion ensures differences are welcomed, different perspectives are respectfully heard, and every individual feels a sense of belonging.
Discussion Questions
- What other analogies do you have as a way of thinking about diversity, equity and inclusion?
- Why is DEI important to you both personally and professionally? What is the value in being an organization or an individual that embraces diversity practices, equity, and inclusion?
- How can we better learn to understand, respect, and value individual differences?
- Do groups with diverse members make better decisions? Discuss.
- What are the challenges when an organization practices valuing diversity?
• When we value the diversity of different groups, why is it important to
understand the groups’ histories of oppression? Why not?
- Discuss: Do you consider yourself to be culturally competent when interacting and talking with persons of the following groups?
• Persons with various types of disabilities.
• Persons who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered.
• Persons with a religion different than your own.
• Persons with a different race, ethnicity, and/or nationality than your own.
Are there any groups you are more competent about than others?
• Discuss: Each of us should learn to be accountable for what we say and do, such that when accused of being discriminatory or harassing, we do not fall back on a somewhat common response of “That is not what I meant.”
ACTION PLAN
In the next month, what one action will I commit to that promotes diversity, equity, and/or inclusion? (i.e. “I will engage in a conversation with someone whose opinions differ from my own.”)
Credit to the Organizational Learning from the University of Michigan
AntiRacist.Conversations (Uncover the Facts). Celebrate.Educate.Cultivate 
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