DRKE’s Post

Linkers, Let's Talk About Microaggressions in the Workplaces. Microaggressions can happen to anyone, regardless of race or ethnicity. They're often unintentional, but their impact can be cumulative and harmful. Here are some examples: 💥Mistaking passion for aggression 💥Mispronouncing or disregarding names 💥Attributing strong emotions to a lack of professionalism. These behaviors can create a hostile work environment and hinder collaboration. What can you do? Practice empathy: Consider how your words and actions might be interpreted. Be mindful of unconscious bias: We all have them, but self-awareness is key. Learn and grow: Educate yourself about microaggressions and their effects. Remember, the goal is to create a workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. What are you going to do it different? #microaggressions #diversityandinclusion #workplaceculture

The way you frame and justify "diversity," matters. For example, when a governor stated that: ". . .young Black kids growing up in the Bronx who don't even know what the word computer is. . ." followed by, "I want the world opened up to all of them because, when you have their diverse voices innovating solutions through technology, then you're really addressing societies broader challenges. . ." -- this was "positively-framed" (maybe even "well-intentioned") deficit. This was stated in a room of people that did not look like the population whom she was discussing. When you are advocating -- your word choice matters, your messaging matters. Regardless of your intent, what is your impact? How are you framing the subjects of your advocacy? Things to Consider/Note: Create space for the people who are often silenced to share their thoughts and experiences, as opposed to speaking on behalf of others--because that often comes from a place of privilege. Groups of people are not monolithic. Dont attempt to advocate and present messages that are void of critical, socio-cultural / socio-political issues that perpetuate inequalities and ignore social and political realities. You can't "gift" what is a human right--rid yourself of the savior complex. #ConstantReflectionIsKey *These beliefs are my own and are not representative of any organization or company for which I work.

You’ve worked hard to reach where you are, right? But are you still connected to the passions that drive you? Financial freedom isn’t just about your income—it’s about gaining the peace of mind to focus on what truly matters. Imagine a future where you’re not only financially secure but also - free to grow, - give back, and - pursue your personal goals. Let’s work together to build that future, where you can thrive in all areas of life, not just at work. Thoughts? ~~~~~~~ 👋🏾 I’m Shehara (Sha-Hair-Rah) Wooten, CFP®, speaker and author. I help mid-career Black women STEM professionals go from feeling financially stagnant despite their high earnings to achieving financial freedom and independence so that they can enjoy peace of mind, secure their future, and focus on personal growth and contributions that matter most to them.

Here's my latest blog, titled "Are All White People Racist?" I hope you find it of interest. https://lnkd.in/e3-KJxKu

🖤❤️💛 In honor of #Juneteenth, we are proud to highlight the first episode of our series, "Between Black and White: Asian Americans Speak Out," featuring Eddie Zheng. After spending 21 years behind bars for a crime he committed at 16, Eddie is now at the forefront of building bridges through his work with the New Breath Foundation. Although there is this history of cross-racial solidarity between Asian Americans and Black Americans, conflicts still exist between these communities. Part of the reason why is misunderstanding and distrust. When Asian Americans are unaware of how white supremacy and anti-Blackness have impacted them as a community, it prevents them from understanding Black Americans’ experiences. Asian Americans need to comprehend how they are oppressed as people of color, while also being “structurally advantaged relative to Black people.” Professor of Political Science and Asian American Studies, Claire Jean Kim theorizes where Asian Americans fit in the U.S. racial order, which provides insight on the gaps of understanding. “Whites, then, are lifted up by both white supremacy and anti-Blackness, and Black people are pushed down by both,” explains Kim. “All other groups, including Asian Americans, are simultaneously pushed down by white supremacy and lifted by anti-Black-ness." Eddie's mission is to foster unity and understanding between Asian American and African American communities. In San Francisco, these communities are working together to confront racism, fear, and misconceptions. Their collaborative efforts are making a positive impact and bridging gaps, showing that when we unite, we can create lasting change. Watch a clip from the episode and join us in celebrating the spirit of solidarity and resilience this #Juneteenth. 📺 Watch the full episode at https://lnkd.in/eFcp8yau #SericaInitiative #NewBreathFoundation #EddieZheng #CommunityUnity #Juneteenth2024 #BlackAndAsianSolidarity

Family and friends:   Are you interested in becoming a published researcher, expert, or authority in your field regarding Black society today?   Today, I am proud to announce the launch of my new research journal through The Berry Institute, MOVE | Volume I. MOVE is a national research journal that offers culturally responsive observations and insights from elite practitioners on contemporary society regarding Black education, mental health, and the social sciences.   MOVE was founded with a clear mission: to address the underrepresentation of Black voices and perspectives in scholarly discourse across education, mental health, and the social sciences. Recognizing the systemic barriers faced by Black communities in academia and beyond, MOVE aims to amplify these voices, highlight their contributions, and foster a more equitable and inclusive society. By providing a platform for rigorous research, authentic narratives, and innovative insights, MOVE seeks to challenge existing narratives, promote anti-racist practices, and advance understanding of the complexities within the Black experience.   Starting August 1st, our editorial board or skilled doctors will be accepting research manuscripts for publication across the United States of America. Please stay tuned for more information. I am looking forward to reviewing your submission!   Dr. Keon N. Berry MOVE, Chief Editor   #DrKeonNBerry #DrKeonBerry #TheBerryInstitute #MOVE #MOVEV1 #Research #Academia #BlackScholarship #Publish

I don’t know if any of you receive The Knowledge in your inbox, but this article here I think is spot on as to what and how we digest our information and - just replace US with the UK and our direction of travel. ————————- Cheer up, America – you’re less divided than you think. Here’s a “wild thought”, say Jim VandeHei and Mike Allen in Axios: what if we Americans have been deceived into thinking we’re “more divided, more dysfunctional and more defeated” than we really are? The topics that cause the most outrage are almost always driven by fringe views. No, most Christians aren’t white nationalist whack jobs who see Donald Trump as a “God-like figure”. Most Republicans don’t want to ban all abortions starting at conception; most Democrats don’t want to allow them right up until birth. Most college professors aren’t trying to “silence conservatives”, and most students aren’t raging anti-Semites who run around campus chanting “From the river to the sea”. The reason this “fringe nonsense” plays such an oversized role in American culture – and beyond – is because the way people get their news has changed. Society has shattered, like shards of glass, into different “information bubbles” based on age, politics, professions and passions. Inside these bubbles it can be hard to work out what’s really true, making them the perfect breeding ground for “edge-case outrages”. Social media plays a big part. The likes of X and Facebook are powered by the people with the biggest followings, who tend to be “the most provocative, partisan or pugilistic”. Americans feeling gloomy about the state of their country should just think of all the people they meet day-to-day. How many are “decent, normal” folk – the kind who do volunteer work, love their family, look out for their neighbours? It’s most of them, right? Well, that’s “normal America”. That’s “real America”.

Dear Parents, In the spirit of shaping the minds of our young readers, let me take you on a literary journey into the sphere of "Top Fantasy Books by Black Authors in 2023." It is an era marked by exceptional creativity merging Afrofuturism, folklore traditions, and innovative techniques. Let's empower our young ones by equipping them with eye-opening narratives that celebrate diversity, stimulate imagination, and broaden horizons. Lowering the traditional veil, we find an overwhelming cadre of black authors, from established voices to emerging talents. Together, they have enriched the complex tapestry of diverse fantasy literature this year, making it an exceptional period for the genre. More than just reading a book, these narratives offer a captivating universe that mirrors our own, yet surprises with fresh, unique, and exciting elements. Diving into such enriching narratives would mean walking hand in hand with our children into a realm where a Black mermaid can rule the deep sea, an Afrofuturistic kingdom can thrive beyond the stars and mythical creatures drawn from folk tales can walk among us. These stories are a testament to the transformative power of diversity not only in literature but in the wider world, fueling innovative thinking, cultivating empathy, and promoting inclusiveness. Exploring these extraordinary works of black authors is like ushering our young readers into a vibrant and rich literary landscape where diversity is a lighthouse, guiding the future of fantasy literature. Think of it as shaping not just their reading habits, but also how they view the world and their place in it. So, to all guardians of future trailblazers, let's pledge to unearth these brilliant narratives poolside, at story bedtime, during the morning commute to school, or any fleeting moment that will help shape our children's world view. Not only are we able to cultivate their love for literature but also paint a world for them that is abundant with diversity and opportunity. Let's together illuminate the path to a diverse, inclusive, and innovative future through the pages of these brilliant fantasy books penned by black authors. Your engagement, opinions, and suggestions are more than welcome. Let's champion diversity in literature to craft a vibrant, inclusive world for our middle-graders and young adults. #BlackAuthors #TopFantasyBooks #DiversityInLiterature #ReadingWithKids Read the full post on https://lnkd.in/dSXPQ-N7.

6 months ago, I posted about Speak Up/Out Culture 📣 In the post (see comments for link 🔗), I had a profound revelation about unlearning silence that struck a chord deep within me. ✨ Unlearning silence is not just an individual act of courage; it's a shared commitment. ✨ Yup, read that again 👆🏽 Embracing this collective responsibility has shifted my perspective on courage and speaking out. This feels like an important moment to remind us all that the personal is political. My life as a Black queer mama depends on it. My Black queer family’s life depends on it. I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris & Tim Waltz. It’s each of our responsibilities to do our research and vote. 🗳️ Not just for the US President & VP, down the ballot as well. Personally, I’ve got some work to do since this will be my first Oakland election after living in Berkeley for 15 years. ✌🏽 I will also be writing postcards and making calls ✍🏽📲 It’s time to unlearn the silence of politics in the workplace simply out of fear of our employers. Our lives depend on it ❤️🔥 How are you unlearning silence in your own life? Share in the comments below 👇🏽

📢 👏🏾A Call To Action 👏🏾📢 Thought-provoking, emotion-inducing post here... I submit for your consideration. Think on it. Then act on it. "Black professionals pay a cost for the climb that they can ill afford and others would never tolerate." #blackhistorymonth #morethanamonth #deistrategy #calltoaction #changethealgorithm #flipthescript #generationaltrauma #climb #blackexcellence #equityforall