What We're Reading: The difference between DEI and anti-racism at work
"Over the past few years, companies made it their mission to commit to diversifying their boards and fostering a more inclusive culture. But, with women holding just 24% of senior leadership positions globally, and white people making up almost 80% of the American workforce, there is still work to be done," said author Ashton Jackson for Make It Black. "That's why Lybra Clemons, chief diversity, inclusion and belonging officer at Twilio, works to build diverse representation at every level."
"I think a lot of people thought it was just a more elevated term for diversity, equity inclusion. But as we've started to go through the process, we're learning that anti-racism is different. DE&I are still very foundational and fundamental to work, but anti-racism is an active term where you are personally responsible. This is about self-awareness and taking full accountability of who you are. We are actively promoting equity and racial justice through consistent, deliberate decisions that we make."
"There's the mistrust, people discredit you… you have to be the ultimate subject matter expert," [Twilio] says. "And even when you are, people are still discrediting and doubting you. You have to work harder to gain that trust with your peer group. And so I find that I've had to use all kinds of tools and coaching to stay confident in who I am and know how to manage when people are constantly ripping away at you."