United in Resilience: Overcoming Obstacles to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Today, I embarked on a journey that took me to the heart of a somber memorial, a place dedicated to the memory of George Floyd. Standing there, gazing upon the very spot where he lost his life to the relentless pressure of a knee on his neck, I was engulfed by a profound sense of gravity. It was a moment of reflection, one that followed a presentation on the mounting resistance to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in our society.
George Floyd’s tragic death ignited a fire in the soul of America, shining a spotlight on the pervasive injustices, hatred, and bigotry that persist. His lived experience served as a stark reminder of the depths of hatred harbored by a radical far-right segment of our society. It forced us to confront our own capacities and the power we possess to confront the weight of this grievance upon the soul of our nation.
In that pause for reflection, the moment’s power breathed new life into our collective resilience and the potential within each of us — mind, heart, and soul. Although George Floyd’s voice was silenced, his story resonated and amplified the voices and experiences of countless others, transcending boundaries of race, class, age, and sexual orientation. Standing up, I felt an unwavering determination to face the challenges ahead.
We are undeniably up for this challenge. It is essential to recognize that the opposition we face is short-sighted and narrow in its focus. The vast majority of Americans support the inclusion of our nation’s growing diversity. As I contemplated the gathering of DEI leaders from major corporations, diverse locations, and various industries, it became evident that our work is about inclusivity for all. It is not confined to the limited views of a segment that, by my estimation, represents less than 10% of Americans. It is crucial to understand that platforms and forums designed to undermine our efforts can be readily constructed and amplified by a recalcitrant minority.
Amidst these challenges, it is vital to remember the significance of the work undertaken by major corporations in guiding all stakeholders forward. This work, transformative and timely, is precisely what the detractors and resisters vehemently oppose. It is a commitment that grows stronger as we hear the stories and lived experiences of those at the forefront of this battle.
As we navigate this journey, let us remain encouraged, hopeful, and unyielding in our resolve to drive change forward. The opportunity to engage in these productive conversations is a testament to our collective dedication to a more inclusive and equitable future — one where the voices of all are heard, respected, and embraced. Together, we shall continue to stand united in resilience, overcoming the obstacles that seek to impede our path to a brighter, more inclusive world.
Effenus Henderson
