Clearing the Air: Addressing Leadership Buy-In and Resistance when Making the Case for DEI
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Do we really still need to “make the case” for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion? The answer to the question is a firm “yes.” The assumptions and resistance often expressed by leaders is surprisingly similar to what it was 20 years ago. Fortunately, we now have much more targeted and effective strategies to address this enduring challenge. In this session, participants will engage with specific research and arguments utilized to effectively advocate for DEI work. Additionally, two common types of resistance will be explored, with participants learning how to diagnose and address both in the process of making their case. Finally, they’ll be given a template to apply their newfound knowledge to draft a case for DEI for their own organization.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe arguments to make the case for DEI.
- Describe two frequent types of resistance to organization-wide DEI.
- Describe how to diagnose and address leadership resistance.
- Implement a DIY template to create their own organizational business case.
Sara Taylor
Sara Taylor, President and Founder of deepSEE Consulting, has 35 years of extensive experience, nationally recognized as in the practice of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion serving local, national and global clients. While her areas of specialty are in both Diversity and Leadership Development, Sara has become a thought leader particularly in the field of Cultural Competence. Her bestselling book, Filter Shift: How Effective People SEE the World, is used by numerous individuals and organizations to increase success and create greater effectiveness. Sara holds a Master's degree in Diversity and Organizational Development and, prior to founding deepSEE, held positions such as Chief Diversity Officer and Leadership and Diversity Specialist.