Making Space | A Sunday Sentiment

Consider this… Yesterday was International Women’s Day - A day aimed to celebrate the pretty simple idea that women across the globe deserve EQUALITY In treatment, pay, recognition, opportunity, freedom, access and oh so much more.

Yet, at the same time as the World reiterates the North Star of societal INCLUSION of women, U.S. leadership in the public and private sectors is literally wilting, wailing, and whining in the face of DIVERSITY of nearly all types.

Even more alarming is that the global birthplace of “freedom” is not only whining about DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION, they are so afraid of it that they’ve gone to war against the very words.

As we speak, there is an attempt to remove, erase, prohibit, criminalize & intimidate the public square from seeing, saying, & writing words like LGBTQ, CLIMATE CHANGE, MULTICULTURAL, BLACK, DISCRIMINATORY and hundreds more.

Whether you are red or blue, the fearful “OTHERING” of things, ideas, or people you don’t understand will eventually come knocking on your own door.

If you value free speech, expression, & a more equitable society free from the control of the age-old powers that be, there is a way to MAKE SPACE without needing to leave the circle or prohibiting others from joining.

WE TAKE ONE STEP BACK & WIDEN THE CIRCLE.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION is not a zero sum endeavor. When more women, minorities, LGBTQ etc… are actively engaged and represented in our orgs and institutions, the status quo perspectives become more broad, bold, & brilliant.

A white man isn’t forced out when a black woman steps in IF we make space. When circles widen, there is place and purpose and power for all. Opportunities EXPAND.

But, when we clench our fists and keep circles small, our rigidity reduces our potential. Culturally, we CONTRACT.

SAMENESS, INEQUALITY, EXCLUSION. Does this sound like the land of the free and home of the brave?

If not, call your elected officials and tell them you are NOT AFRAID of diversity. Let morally panicked companies know you DO NOT RUN from equity. Let your neighbor know you DO NOT WILT from inclusion.

LEARN TO WIDEN YOUR CIRCLES.