[dropshadowbox align=”center” effect=”lifted-both” width=”540px” height=”” background_color=”#3107b8″ border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” ]“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]
In his speech on #BlackLivesMatter and race in America, AT&T CEO, Randall Stephenson, put it plainly– “Tolerance is for cowards.” And as we conclude our series on our Pledge to Commit to Live Inclusively, particularly on the heels of what has been a wearisome week for some, I think Stephenson’s words are ever more relevant.
When we commit to live inclusively and take a stand for inclusion, we are asserting that our experience with difference goes beyond the degree to which we “allow it to exist, without interference” (tolerate, defined). It means our inclination to engage with difference extends beyond how much we agree or are familiar with those differences. It means we actively seek opportunities to first understand, and boldly challenge narratives that perpetuate stereotypes, distorted (alternative) facts, and irresponsible judgement.
Committing to live inclusively means understanding that growth requires being uncomfortable sometimes. It means using one’s privilege and power to influence and shift the mindsets of others. It means going on one’s own continuous journey of learning and understanding, but also bringing people along with you, in confidence that we will make a difference– one person, one organization, one system at a time.
