Topics discussed in this episode:

1- Today’s topic: Turning the fire inward [0:01:12]

2- Framing the current context: DEI as a target [0:02:07]

3- The dominant narrative that DEI is responsible for inequity and the efforts to “return to colorblind equality” [0:05:38]

4- An explanation of what is meant by the phrase “Turning the Fire Inward.” [0:07:53]

5- The root of much of what is happening in progressive spaces: the disingenuous disconnect between being willing to name racism but not disrupt it. [0:08:56]

6- The need to get real about equity urgently and what this looks like in organizations. [0:10:44]

7- Thoughts on how DEI doesn't create inequity, it names it, and how this naming dynamic plays out in organizations. [0:14:40]

8- Practical things that you can do to get your organization unstuck, starting with moving beyond the naming. [17:38]

9- Why it’s important to focus on equity-centered practice first before doing external work. [0:18:20]

10- Acknowledging the generational divide in most workplaces. [0:19:03]

11- How the failure in progressive spaces to address racism gives fodder to those who despise equity. [0:19:43]

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• What if Diversity Training Is Doing More Harm Than Good?[0:02:58]
• ‘DEI is dead’: At VMI, Youngkin’s diversity chief slams diversity, equity, inclusion [0:03:02]
• Massive Tech Layoffs Are Undercutting DEI Progress Made With Recent Hires [0:03:16]
• How Do Equity and Equality Differ?[0:06:23]
• “Elephant in the Zoom: Meltdowns Have Brought Progressive Advocacy Groups to a Standstill at a Critical Moment in World History” [0:08:15]
• The Backlash to Workplace DEI [0:11:36]
• When Fatigue Sets in [0:20:09]

Click here for an episode transcript.