Cheraine NcubeWhen it comes to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion work, I have to brace myself, because this journey is anything but easy. It demands relentless determination, resilience, and a willingness to confront the uncomfortable. But let me tell you, the impact we make along the way is absolutely worth it.
As someone who actively works towards a more inclusive world while belonging to marginalized groups, I often find myself standing at a crossroads.
Should I call out inappropriate behavior or call the person in for a heartfelt conversation? It’s a delicate dance, one that requires a fine balance.
In my relentless pursuit of progress, I’ve realized the importance of clarity. I know exactly what I won’t tolerate, yet I understand that we’re all flawed, imperfect beings. It’s a delicate balance, but one that I refuse to compromise on.
Let me make one thing abundantly clear: I’ve reached a point in my life and career where turning a blind eye to injustice is simply not an option. Especially when it involves people. There are moments when the equation of 1+1 doesn’t equal 2, and in those instances, I will raise my voice. But what does that mean?
I Will Call Out…
When someone claims to be an ally, yet their allyship is nothing more than a hollow performance, I won’t hesitate to call it out. Words and actions must align, and genuine allyship requires sacrifice and dedication for the betterment of humanity. Performative gestures may fool some, but they insult the very essence of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion.
And let’s talk about those who prefer symbolic gestures over tackling real issues. It’s 2023, and we’ve moved past the era of raising awareness without taking substantial action. In this day and age, it’s ludicrous to still be asking how to raise awareness or celebrate a certain group. It’s time for genuine, substantial work that addresses the core issues faced by marginalized communities. You can’t make a positive impact on people’s lives with empty gestures. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and do the real work.
Furthermore, if you dismiss the struggles faced by marginalized communities as insignificant and say ‘its not that big of a deal’, prepare to be called out. Disregarding the lived experiences and injustices endured by marginalized groups is not only disrespectful but perpetuates a cycle of bullying and harassment. The time for censoring conversations around Equity, Diversity & Inclusion is long gone. It’s time to rip off the veil and expose the truth. Censorship has no place in our journey towards progress!
I Will Call In…
But it’s not all about calling out. When the truth becomes uncomfortable and you’re searching for guidance, I’ll be there to call you in. Growing and maturing means acknowledging that our knowledge isn’t always complete or correct. When you’re ready to confront that reality and embark on that transformative path, I’ll be your unwavering support.
If you want to be part of the solution, but fear rejection when starting difficult conversations, I encourage you to step forward. I will call you in and help you navigate those challenging dialogues with facts, empathy, and understanding. Join rooms where authentic conversations are happening, and learn how to kick-start the dialogue that leads to change.
Finally, if you truly desire to be anti-racist, anti-sexist, and know that collective action is the only way forward, I will gladly call you in. In this line of work, no one can go it alone. To dismantle the oppressive systems that marginalize black people and women, we need a united, safe, and authentic community. Centuries of struggle have taught us that lasting change requires the power of collaboration. If you’re ready to embody the change you wish to see, let’s embark on this journey together.
Word To The Allies
Listen closely: allyship and inclusion are verbs! Mere words and surface-level support won’t cut it in this line of work. We need true allies who are ready to roll up their sleeves and take action. I’m on the lookout for those who are willing to join forces and make a lasting impact.
The journey we undertake in the realm of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion is not for the faint-hearted. It demands unwavering dedication, a commitment to truth, and the audacity to challenge the status quo.
Gone are the days of performative gestures and empty words. Our society yearns for genuine, substantial action that dismantles systemic oppression and uplifts the voices of the marginalized. It is within our collective power to create a world where everyone can thrive, regardless of their race, gender, or background.
Remember, true allyship is not a label to be worn; it is a lifelong commitment to positive change. Together, we can shatter the chains of oppression and build a future where equity, diversity, and inclusion reign supreme.
Together, let’s create a world where equity, diversity, and inclusion thrive, and where our collective impact transforms lives. Follow me on LinkedIn for more.