Kathairo Solutions

Is your organization or ministry looking to start an initiative geared towards diversity? That’s a good thing! But, navigating the waters of diversity and inclusion efforts has great potential for miscommunication which can snowball and create more problems than solutions. Here are three thoughts on rolling out diversity efforts in ways that are clear, respectful, and galvanizing:

• Agreement – Diversity is a widely used word. Yet, it can be just as misunderstood as it is used. The meaning of of diversity will vary depending on each organizations’ values and goals. Make sure that everyone involved understands and agrees on exactly what type of diversity your organization is seeking to achieve. Read What is Diversity? for more thoughts on honing your groups definition of diversity.
• Advertising – When a company releases a new product, do they hide it? No! They get the word out to as many people as possible. A diversity effort cannot truly be an effort if no one knows about it. When a company, church, or school agrees to change its diversity goals, everyone involved needs to know. Otherwise, when new trainings and initiatives are introduced, stakeholders will be confused, Make sure people know changes are on the way.
• Alignment – “Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet?” (Amos 3:3 ESV). Starting off in agreement is vitally important. Further, importance must be placed on continuing to preserve in relationships among leaders as changes take place. For example, those in the majority may need to learn more about being a supportive ally along the process. When enacting diversity efforts, relational alignment is key. Change is hard. Yet, when relationships are strong, groups can endure the changes well.

Reflection

• Read What is Race? for more thoughts on successful diversity initiatives
• What else would you include for organizations looking to increase diversity efforts?
• Be sure that you clearly understand your diversity efforts, the reason behind them, and your goals before moving forward.