Happy New Year!
We ended 2016 with our feature series, “Healing After the Election.” In it, we explored the impact of the election on diversity and inclusion efforts. We also shared some thoughts on what we could do to continue move the needle forward in this work and our daily lives, as we strive towards inclusion.
I think the top of the year presents an even more timely opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to living inclusively. Amidst the polarization that continues to exist throughout many of our global systems, and the feels of (insert feeling here) that you may be experiencing as our country prepares to transition power, I believe there is greater need for us to continue to be intentional in living inclusively.
We’ve put together a pledge and affirmation to remind ourselves and you about what that means. I challenge you to read, recite, and commit to it yourself:
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I commit to be intentional in living inclusively.
I commit to spending more time getting to know myself and understanding my culture. It is in understanding myself, that I am better positioned to understand others. I will acknowledge that I don’t know what I don’t know, but I will not use what is unconscious as an excuse.
I will be intentional in exposing myself to difference. If I don’t know, I will ask. If I am asked, I will assume positive intent. Most importantly, I will accept my responsibility in increasing my own knowledge and understanding.
I commit to speaking up and speaking out, even when I am not directly impacted, for there is no such thing as neutrality in the quest for equity, justice, and inclusion.
I will strive to accept, and not just tolerate; respect, even if I don’t agree; and be curious, not judgmental. I commit to pausing and listening. I will be empathetic to the experiences and perspectives of my “others.” I will use my privilege positively, and get comfortable with my own discomfort.
I commit to knowing, getting, and doing better than I did yesterday—keeping in mind my commitment to live inclusively is a journey, not a destination. [/dropshadowbox]
Print, copy/paste, repost, share, write down this pledge, and commit to reminding yourself everyday of what it means to live inclusively.
What will you do differently (or continue to do) this year to foster inclusion within your realm of influence? Feel free share in the comment section.
