Beyond Diversity: Ally-ship

Many positive social changes would not have taken place if not for those who strove to be allies to others who suffered under unfair systems. (For example, many Suffragettes were men, and most Abolitionists were white.)

Truly effective and self-generating diversity initiatives must go beyond simply tolerating differences in order to ward off potential EEO lawsuits. Many diversity programs gloss over the broader social contexts within which women, people of color, the disabled, and other groups struggle, both in and beyond the workplace. And, as many have discovered, some of these superficial initiatives would better not have been tried at all because of the cynicism they often produce.

In a few short hours, expand your awareness that "greater sensitivity" and "multi-cultural awareness" ring shallow if not accompanied by a deeper understanding of how diverse groups can "stand with" and be allies to one another. Build It—and they will come: Extend real understanding and trust — and a highly functioning diverse team that is truly engaged with one another will come, stay the course, and grow.

World Religions 101 for the Workplace

Our world is becoming a more interesting and complex place, as people from various cultures come to live and work together.

Do you ever wonder what the turban signifies to your Sikh co–worker, or what values your Hindu boss holds most deeply, or what most inspires your Buddhist employee? This unique workshop offers a helpful overview of common themes found in some of our world's most ancient spiritual traditions.

Understanding more about the basic belief and value systems of your co-workers and clients will help to avert potentially uncomfortable situations.  This particular cultural sensitivity will contribute considerably towards the sense of mutual appreciation that builds truly harmonious professional relationships.

Navigating Cross-Cultural Life in the Big City!

American businesses [as well as some NGO's] often possess considerable technical information, but generally lag way behind in understanding the norms and worldviews of those from other cultures with whom they are dealing. At times these errors are amusing, and others have very serious consequences. Explore various means by which cultural anthropologists measure and understand views and norms related to various important social aspects, such as ethics, communications, gestures, emotions, status, time, and destiny.

—Be sure what those hands of yours are saying!!

What Most Diversity Training Leaves Unsaid & Unfinished

Most racial diversity training ignores the “elephant in the room.”  Simply talking around “appreciating differences” eludes the fact that our places of business are not islands, but exist within a broader social fabric.  After such programs, the white people often wonder what the point was, and the people of color are left feeling, once again, let down, and cynical.  And so, nothing changes, as our colleagues of color continue to feel invisible and leave the office less likely to hail a cab, get the better restaurant tables, or feel safe in certain neighborhoods. But, there's another way... That will increase comfort and trust, and will allow better communication to occur – and as a result, diversity and a more effective work environment can flourish.  And, no less importantly, other positive changes can then emanate into our broader communities