Building Bridges of Love: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion during the Holiday Season
As Christmas Eve dawns in America, people from various faiths and religions gather to celebrate their own cherished traditions. In a world where diversity is both our strength and our challenge, this time of year reminds us of the importance of unity, love, and hope. This resonates particularly deeply with me as a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) practitioner, as I recently attended a service that left a profound message: “push back on the gravity of hate” and continue to “blast off” with love, joy, and hope.
The theme of “Building after the Shift” displayed prominently on the side of the church speaks volumes about the current state of our society. We find ourselves in a time where the concept of DEI faces growing opposition. As someone deeply committed to fostering transformative change in DEI, this message serves as a poignant reminder to stay faithful to the truth, to the principles of inclusion, and to love one another, even when our differences in faith and perspective seem insurmountable.
In these moments, it becomes crucial to reflect on the profound wisdom of the season and its lessons. Christmas is a time to find joy in the journey, to embrace the spirit of giving, and to recognize that we are continually moving higher, even in the face of those who attempt to stand in the way of progress. The essence of the holiday season lies in our ability to rise above adversity, to extend a hand of friendship to those who are different from us, and to maintain our unwavering faith in the power of unity.
As a DEI thought leader, I understand the challenges that come with advocating for change. We encounter resistance, skepticism, and even hostility. However, we must persist in our mission, reminding ourselves of the profound message shared on this Christmas Eve: to “push back on the gravity of hate.” Hate is a powerful force that seeks to divide us, but love, joy, and hope can propel us forward, building bridges that connect us in our shared humanity.
During this holiday season, let us carry the faith that transcends religious boundaries. Let us remember that the essence of DEI work is rooted in the values of love, respect, and inclusion. Just as different faiths come together to celebrate their traditions during this time, let us come together as a society, embracing diversity, and working collectively toward a brighter, more inclusive future. This is our commitment, our gift to one another, and our lasting legacy in the face of opposition.
Effenus Henderson
