EQUALITY INSIGHTS
Weekly 5 Things editions plus essays and GUIDANCE on inclusive communication
5 Things / Always Assuming
I originally started this newsletter with a story about a mistaken assumption I made but my editor told me, “It comes across to me like you are downplaying biases… and I think this also shows your privilege that you don't have to deal with biased situations as others do.”
5 Things / The Tech
Earlier this week I was at the law firm Jenner & Block for an event. As I was attaching my lavalier mic, the tech said, referring to me, “she’s a pro [with the mic].” Seconds later, the tech came back and said, “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to assume your gender.” I responded with, “No worries! You guessed right. Thank you.”
5 Things / Always Empathy
I believe it always comes back to empathy, in this case, the manager having empathy for that employee. Whether we’re talking about conversations about politics or race, or whatever, inclusion always comes back to empathy. After all, I only know my lived experience, and it’s been full of privilege.
5 Things / Good Vibes?
I’m excited to share that 5 Things is going a little deeper this year with some small but mighty changes: 1) I’ll begin to provide a bit more context of the problem/oppression behind the positive story; and I’ll include a weekly call to action in the Call to Action & Updates section below. This may be an article to read, a video to watch, a business to support, or something else entirely.
5 Things / 5 Ways
Happy new year! I hope this year is a wonderful one for you, personally and professionally. As always, I’m optimistic that we’re all on the right side of history. I’ll keep sharing the good vibes with you every week and cheer you on along on this DEI journey.