Empowering DEIBelonging: A Collective Gathering

Note: Some participants had to leave early and are not pictured in the group photo.

Strengthening Connections in DEIB

On April 23rd, we gathered our DEIBelonging consultants network for a meaningful day. We took a collective breath, grounded ourselves in our values, and worked together to advance DEIB initiatives. Last year, our meeting was informal. However, this year, we recognized the need for more structure. The current political climate and the ongoing attacks on DEIB demand a focused approach.

A Day of Collaboration and Reflection

We kicked off the day with a delightful brunch. Following the meal, we split into four small groups to engage in various activities:

• Check-in Session: Led by JP, we began by connecting with one another on a personal level.

• Discussion on Hope: Ilsa guided a conversation about hope. This session encouraged us to reflect on our aspirations amid challenges.

• Sharing Challenges and Opportunities: Richard led this session, where we openly shared our struggles and potential opportunities for growth.

• Self-Exploration with Visual Explorer Cards: Judy facilitated a creative activity using visual explorer cards, allowing us to delve deeper into our individual experiences.

  
  

Each group rotated throughout the morning, ensuring everyone participated in each session. The variety of discussions enriched our understanding and connection.

Building a Collective Future

As the day concluded, we gathered for a large group discussion, facilitated by Caprice. This session sparked a rich conversation about language and how we communicate within our community. We explored plans for actionable next steps to ensure our forward momentum.

Caprice invited each participant to share one word that described their feelings at the end of the gathering. Words like grounded, hopeful, encouraged, grateful, and engaged resonated throughout the group. This feedback highlighted the event's impact on our spirits and beliefs.

The Importance of Community

In times of adversity, community support becomes essential. Our gathering served as a powerful reminder of this truth. Together, we formed connections that inspire us to face challenges and rejoice in accomplishments. The collaborative spirit shown during the event reaffirms our commitment to DEIB initiatives.

As active participants in this community, we feel energized to continue working alongside one another. The sense of belonging cultivated during the event is invaluable. We are determined to keep the momentum alive as we navigate our paths in DEIB-related work.

Moving Forward Together

The journey doesn’t end here. Each of us carries the responsibility to spread the message of inclusivity and equity beyond this gathering. We must actively work to dismantle barriers and enrich our community.

One way to stay connected is by engaging in ongoing discussions. Participating in forums, workshops, and networks enhances our understanding and expands our reach. Sharing our experiences and learning from one another is vital.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our April 23rd event was a beautiful gathering of minds and spirits. We left inspired and eager to make a difference. Together, we can drive meaningful change in DEIB. The collective energy we created is a foundation on which we can build impactful initiatives. As we move forward, let us remain united in purpose and passion.

We are proud to be part of such a wonderful community and look forward to what lies ahead. Our engagement in DEIB efforts not only strengthens our connections but also fosters a brighter future for all.

With that, let's keep the conversation going and work together to promote true inclusivity: DEIBelonging.

We are grateful for this community and are excited to continue this important work together!