Ian Lee Butler’s Post

Use these strategies to build inclusivity in your company.

Use these strategies to build inclusivity in your company.

🔊 Exciting News for Federal Agencies & Advocates of Inclusion! 🔊 Are you passionate about building a workplace where diversity is not just welcomed but celebrated? GSA in collaboration with the U.S. AbilityOne Commission is fostering an inclusive environment that values every individual's unique abilities and contributions. Our latest blog, "Empowering Diversity: How Your Agency Can Join GSA and AbilityOne in Building a More Inclusive Future," offers an in-depth look into our ongoing efforts and successes. We're inviting federal agency AbilityOne Representatives (ABORs) to join us in this transformative journey. From learning the essence of the AbilityOne Program to establishing your own ABOR program, there are numerous ways to get involved and make a significant impact. Millisa Gary, GSA’s AbilityOne Procurement Executive, shares her experience: "It's more than a job; it's a community where everyone's abilities are valued and nurtured." ✨ Let's work together to build a workforce that truly reflects the rich diversity of our nation. Connect with GSA’s AbilityOne Representative today and be the catalyst for meaningful change in your agency. Take the first step towards empowering diversity within your agency: https://ow.ly/zv1K50R3xkk #DiversityAndInclusion #EmpowerDiversity #GSA #AbilityOne #InclusiveFuture #FederalAgencies

At SELDOC, we recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. South Asian Heritage Month, observed from July 18 to August 17, is a time to celebrate and honour the rich cultural contributions of South Asian communities. This year marks the 6th anniversary of the event since its founding in 2018, and the theme, "Free to be me," encourages us to embrace differences in heritage and culture, fostering inclusivity in our workplaces and communities. This month provides an opportunity to reflect on the diverse backgrounds, traditions, and experiences that enrich our professional environment. Understanding and appreciating these cultural nuances can foster a more inclusive and empathetic workplace, where everyone feels valued and respected. Highlighting South Asian Heritage Month allows us to acknowledge the unique perspectives that our colleagues from South Asian backgrounds bring to the table. It encourages open dialogue, promotes cultural awareness, and helps build stronger, more cohesive teams. At SELDOC, we believe that recognising and celebrating such diversity not only enhances our workplace culture but also drives innovation and success. Embracing these conversations and learning from one another is a step towards a more inclusive and equitable work environment for all. Upcoming Events: 🍵 Live Tea Break Experience Event 12 September: Theme: “Microaggressions vs Banter” 📅 Don't miss out on this unique event, highly recommended by 94% of attendees! https://lnkd.in/eTMkATK4 🎙️ Race and Neurodiversity Event 8 October: 📅 Join the discussion on intersectionality, supporting ethnically diverse and neurodiverse colleagues. https://lnkd.in/ef-HnEHp Both events are free for Race Equality Matters members and their employees. Non-members can take advantage of our early bird offers. Let's make a difference together in creating a more inclusive and understanding workplace. Your participation and support can drive the change for race equality. #SouthAsianHeritageMonth #DiversityAndInclusion #FreeToBeMe #RaceEquality #InclusiveWorkplace #CelebrateHeritage

If you're new to DE&I, it's not too late to start your journey. This article shares four key things to keep in mind as you get started #betterlatethannever #peoplestrategies #diversity #equity #inclusion

I find the call for more diversity frustrating, interesting, and important in equal measure. I hear people talking about it in a way that to me feels like there is an "us" and then there are diverse candidates i.e. "them" - whether that is race, gender, economic background, or some other form of “diversity". My take on it is as that everyone is different: we are all individual and thus bring our own forms of diversity, and it is this richness of experience that matters. This is what makes for more interesting conversations, insights and more mindful decision making. I prefer to think of it is as breadth. Breadth of perspective, so as wide a range of backgrounds and experiences and ways of looking at and being in the world are considered as possible. The challenge is how we make every experience count just as much as anyone else's – particularly where experience is deemed less relevant or important. Organisations like Progress Together and many others continue to shine a light on the need for broader experience and richer perspectives and it was great to hear from one of their members. Broadening what counts as worthwhile and relevant is hugely important – this is a two-way conversation. I can teach you a few things about how I look at and experience the world, just as you can teach me many things about yours… Proactivity and humility go a long way. Interested to hear what “diversity” means to others… 

My personal reflection and thoughts: In our pursuit of a fair and inclusive society, we stand at a crucial moment, where the true measure of our progress lies in our willingness to engage openly with the full range of human diversity. It is imperative that employers in the UK rise above the avoidance of difficult topics and confront the deeper realities of our collective experience. The practice of sidelining discussions on politics, religion, and race in the workplace, though often seen as a means to maintain harmony, only serves to keep alive the divisions we need to overcome. Just as our nation’s rich history and cultural diversity shape our identity, so must our workplaces embrace this diversity to truly flourish. True progress requires the courage to address uncomfortable truths and seek genuine understanding. Our workforce, with its myriad of backgrounds and perspectives, represents a powerful force for innovation and growth. Embracing these diverse voices is not just a matter of policy but of recognising the value they bring. It is not about ticking boxes but about enriching our organisations with a broader array of ideas and insights, leading to greater success and a more inclusive environment. Let us not rely solely on external consultants to guide us on these matters. Instead, we should engage directly with our employees who have experienced prejudice or discrimination, and listen to their stories with empathy and determination. The discomfort we feel in these conversations is a sign of progress, not a barrier. When we talk about equality, it is essential to make tangible and meaningful changes, driven by a sincere commitment to justice rather than mere compliance. The goal is not only to create a safe and inclusive workplace but to ensure that every individual feels valued and heard. In the UK, as we grapple with these issues, let us remember that the solution lies not in costly interventions but in the daily practice of open dialogue, education, and shared growth. By fostering these conversations, we move closer to the ideal of a truly equitable society. Let us, therefore, continue this vital work with unwavering dedication, committed to creating a future where everyone can thrive in a just and inclusive environment.

This workshop should provide great insight! FOCUS St. Louis and Missouri Historical Society team up to explore neurodivergence and the very real implications in the workplace. Check it out!

YOUR EDI SUCCESSES - COMPLETE THE SURVEY! Click here: bit.ly/42BzcLk Policies surrounding equity, diversity and inclusion are incredibly important considerations for professional bodies. Increasingly professional bodies are designing and implementing initiatives to create a homogenous and equal membership platform that effectively represents all those within their respective sectors and professions. PARN's EDI SIG are interested in engaging with any professional bodies that are currently or are looking into, implementing initiatives that aim to further cement equality in their membership. This survey acts as an opportunity for professional bodies to highlight their achievements and presents an opportunity to work with the SIG in future meetings. Click here: bit.ly/42BzcLk

In our workshop session today on Fostering Workplace Belonging, we delved into the crucial topic of valuing age. Age stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination not only harm individuals, but also erode solidarity across generations. Our aim is to challenge these barriers and cultivate inclusivity and understanding. Let's work together to build a society where everyone is valued, regardless of age.