DEI Meetings Are Leaving Members Feeling Offended, Silenced and Misrepresented

DEAR SEANDRA - Our organization has an in-house Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee. There is no doubt that everyone on the committee is committed to creating an environment where critical conversations take place, leading to long-term solutions regarding DEI policies and initiatives. However, because we facilitate truly candid conversations, which can put people on the defensive, instances arise where committee members feel deeply offended, silenced, or misrepresented during our meetings. This can derail our progress towards our goals. What steps can we take to mitigate the damage caused by these heated conversations and get back on track toward a solutions-based focus? - READY TO THROW IN THE TOWEL

DEAR, READY TO THROW IN THE TOWEL - Participating in conversations about race and diversity can be a brave act, especially when people fear that their perspectives will be misunderstood or opposed. Even the most passionate and dedicated members of such a group can feel vulnerable in such situations. In such cases, conflicts can escalate, and a neutral party is usually needed to resolve them.

At the root of it all, it is impossible to be objective when you are the subject of the struggle, so outside help is often necessary.

Rooted Group offers Advisory Consulting Services that help find long-term solutions to problems like these. However, for organizations that need coaching on a case-by-case basis, the Ask Seandra Hotline is available.

It provides immediate, direct advice and support to address issues as they arise and prevent them from derailing otherwise productive programs and initiatives. The hotline offers tailored guidance in areas such as race and diversity, leadership development, strategic planning, training, and facilitation.

You can access the hotline to receive expedited support so you can get back on track with your mission ASAP.

Be Rooted,

Seandra.