University of the Pacific Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion’s Post

Diving deep into the heart of empowerment and resilience, 'Conversations for Change' embarks on its journey with Session 1: Roots of Resilience - Personal Journeys and Evolving Perspectives, specially timed to coincide with Pride Month—an opportune moment that underscores our commitment to #diversity, #equity, and #inclusion (DEI). 👉Watch the full video: https://lnkd.in/eZ8_iQzP 👉Read more: https://lnkd.in/e5Q2TYFn As we celebrate this significant month, we are excited to launch a dialogue series that champions the essence of empowerment for all. Join Alisha Siddhartha, Sr. Marketing Manager at Clovity, and Bhawna Vats, Sr. Director of DEI Engagement and Partnerships, for an enlightening session that promises to delve into the profound impact of early diversity experiences, pivotal moments in DEI advocacy, and the power of change through tangible actions. 🌟 This session not only highlights individual pathways to a shared commitment to #DEI but also showcases Bhawna’s personal and professional journey intertwined with resilience and advocacy. 💡 We'll explore how early encounters with diversity shape our view, celebrate DEI milestones, and learn strategies to combat skepticism towards DEI efforts. Bhawna shares her wisdom and insights, answering a broad spectrum of questions and providing actionable advice for both emerging and established advocates. As we navigate these complex topics, we are reminded of the importance of understanding, action, and unity in driving meaningful change. Tune in to this empowering journey of resilience, wisdom, and change. 🙌 📲 (925)-264-6360 📧 info-global@clovity.com 🌐 www.clovity.com #ConversationsForChange #DEIUnfolded #EmpowermentJourneys #ClovityLeadsChange #PrideMonthCelebration

Last week, I gave a keynote titled An Introduction to Antiracism: The What, Why and How at Diversify Pre-Summit Nordic Roadshow - Helsinki Here are some insights from my discussion. I started by introducing my 2016 definition of antiracism: “A progressive effort (practice or ideological) toward a non-racial end. It could be a reaction towards racism or an action to refute racism before it happens.”. The key phrase to unpark in this definition is “progressive effort”. Borrowing a metaphor of the moving walkway from Lily Zheng DEI Deconstructed, I argued that not all antiracism work produces meaningful antiracist ends. Progressive efforts need to be produced at a velocity above the forces of racism. When our progressive effort is equal to the forces that produce racism, we find ourselves in the same position. About Why we do Antiracism, I highlighted that everyone who does this must ground their work around a solid WHY. If your why is around financial gains, popularity, excitement, etc, you may wake up one day and not find the strength or desire to do the work because your objective has been met. I got into this work to make Finland a better place for my children than the Finland I came into in 2008, better not for myself but for my children. This is why I started the work only after I became a father. How to do the work. Doing this work requires that we identify racially. Then, build the work from the perspective of our racial group. As a black man in Finland, my antiracism is centred around anti-black racism. We all do the work, and we do the work differently because racism affects us differently. It is also important to note that we are all at different stages in our antiracism work. We must not judge others based on their present or our present stage. As we engage in this work, it's crucial to remember the importance of self-care. Our well-being is not a luxury but a necessity for effective antiracism work. If we neglect ourselves, we risk not being able to continue the work we're passionate about. 

Only two years ago, France's Emmanuel Macron inveighed against the importation of American ideas (i.e., DEI) that posed an existentialist threat to French culture (https://lnkd.in/g4vxmuH5). The article below is spot on in examining the interpretation of DEI abroad. It might have been able to address some of the ambiguity in the numerous acronyms that underlie "DEI". One international educator spoke of her organization's commitment to DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging), but for me "A" comes before "B"--you must have "access" before you can cultivate "belonging". In the DEI vernacular we support DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access). If you look at the DEI movement as a ladder toward leading toward equality; DEIA must, as a rung, precede DEIB. #globalthoughts #intled #intleducation #internationaleducation #studyabroad #educationabroad #DEI #equity #highereducation #highered https://lnkd.in/gQiJDt_3

“Spirit & Struggle: Acting toward a Shareable World” is the theme for United Days this May 9 and 10. Join us for amazing workshops, celebratory awards presentations, and the Susan Draper White Lecture featuring Dr. Joy Ladin. ✅ Learn more and register at the link below!

In this video, Dr. Rohit Uppal shares what serving as an Executive Sponsor of the Hispanic/Latinx Resource Group means to him and how the group fosters increased inclusion and representation at TeamHealth. Learn more about DEI at TeamHealth: https://bit.ly/3oKjj5P  TeamHealth Rohit Uppal

In May, we come together to honor the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the United States. This annual celebration recognizes the remarkable impact that AAPI individuals have made across various fields, from arts and sciences to politics and business. Origins and History:  The journey to officially recognize AAPI contributions began in the late 1970s. It took over a decade to establish a permanent month-long celebration. Here’s how it unfolded:  Asian-Pacific American Heritage Week: In 1977, New York Representative Frank Horton introduced House Joint Resolution 540, proposing the first 10 days of May as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Week. Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye introduced a similar resolution the same year. President Jimmy Carter signed it into law in 1978. Expanding to a Month: From 1980 to 1990, each president issued annual proclamations for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. In 1990, Congress expanded the observance to an entire month. Thus, May was officially designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in 1992 under the George H.W. Bush administration. In 2009, it was renamed to AAPI Month.  Let’s embark on a journey of discovery and learning. It’s a time to delve deeper into the stories, achievements and traditions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Together, let’s celebrate their indelible mark on our society and draw inspiration from their enduring spirit.  Wen Stenger 🏳️🌈 Balaji Thiagarajan TechDigital #AsianAmericanPacificIslandersMonth #AAPI #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion    

DEI can be simple if we stop making it so complicated. While talking with a connection today, I reiterated a question I received several months ago about summing DEI into one sentence. I responded, "DEI is essentially a modern take on the traditional rules we were raised with, like the Golden or Platinum rule that society has eliminated." If you didn't like it, that's cool. Read it again. There are some realizations I've had from previous conversations surrounding DEI: 💡 You can't change one's lived experiences because of one's limited mindset, awareness, or experiences. 💡 As far as the BIPOC community has come, we still have a long way to go. 💡 Passion for DEI requires awareness of one's own biases and blind spots 💡 Wanting to make an impact in the world of DEI means embracing being misunderstood, havin' a couple of haters, and changing the narratives YOU subscribe to along the way. While I know that the work behind DEI is tiring, someone who looks like me and you deserves to be seen, heard, and respected for who they are. Go be great, 🌻 Coach P 🌻 P.S. Get ready for the next edition from STG (Steer Towards Greatness)! #DEI #MakeaChange #STG

Promoting Unity and Understanding: Insights from Dr. Patricia Delgado Dr. Patty Delgado, CEO and Founder of Bridgify Group and El Puente Institute, discusses the importance of understanding different cultural identities and terminology. She shares her personal journey and the why behind her work in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Delgado emphasizes the need for intentionality and curiosity in navigating the diversity space. She also highlights the vision and mission of Bridgify Group and the El Puente Institute in bridging research with practice and helping organizations prepare for the future workforce. Dr. Delgado encourages individuals to break down stereotypes, build relationships, and create opportunities for underrepresented communities. Takeaways Understand and respect different cultural identities and lived experiences. Be intentional and curious in navigating the diversity space. Bridge research with practice to inform decision-making and strategy. Create opportunities and support underrepresented communities. https://lnkd.in/gsaPeVUu

Real DEI integration begins with strong relationships. Real behavior change comes from feeling connected to others and being seen and valued for who you are, all parts of you. This is a layered aspect of the work. It involves a relationship with yourself first, in order to building mutually agreed upon professional partnerships with others. At the end of the day, they are a requirement for sustainable systems change. How connected are you and your business to the relational component of DEI? #relationaldei #dei #systemschange

This May, we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, recognizing the incredible contributions of AAPI individuals to the fabric of our nation. The AAPI community encompasses a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions, representing one of the fastest-growing and most diverse populations in the United States. The history of AAPI in the USA is deeply intertwined with the story of American progress. From the early immigrants who arrived seeking new opportunities to the generations who have since enriched our communities, AAPI individuals have played a vital role in shaping our society and economy. As we reflect on the achievements of AAPI individuals, we also acknowledge the challenges they have faced and continue to overcome. The diversity of America is one of our greatest strengths, and it is through embracing our differences that we become stronger and more united as a nation. In the realm of investing, real estate stands out as a field that is open to everyone, regardless of background or heritage. Many of our forefathers fought for the freedoms we enjoy today, including the ability to invest in real estate and secure our financial futures. As we honor AAPI Heritage Month, let us celebrate the diversity that makes America great and reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. Happy AAPI Heritage Month! #AAPIHeritageMonth #WealthMindset #RealEstateInvesting #Diversification #FinancialIntelligence #ThePharmaInvestor