BerlinRosen’s Post

Dr. Terry O’Banion, with extensive experience in higher education leadership, analyzed the programs of five major community college conferences. His study evaluated the inclusion of key concepts like workforce, general education, DEI, LGBTQ issues, and AI, among others. It also included observations of the conferences and the roles of the organizing staff. Discover Dr. O’Banion’s insights and findings in the full report: https://lnkd.in/gtjvU8MY

When my wife, Emmy Coleman, and I married in May of 2014, we wed in Maine with a wedding party of just seven people since our union wasn’t legal in either of our home states. We never had the big bash with our friends and family to mark the occasion. Well, just a few weeks ago, we made up for this by hosting a lively 10-year anniversary party at Sam Jones BBQ to celebrate the last decade in our journey. Our ten-year anniversary has me reflecting on just how far our society has come in our respect for differences and our beliefs in equal rights. The progress the LGBTQ community has made is not through queer advocacy alone, but with the support of our allies. It’s the meaning of allyship I want to highlight – not just for the gay community, but for all the diverse types of communities we welcome in our workforce. Being an ally does not mean you’re a self-assigned expert. Being an ally does not mean you fully understand the struggles of your colleagues and have ready solutions. Being an ally does mean that you recognize the dignity and common humanity in someone unlike yourself and you are willing to learn more. As I hear the vitriol that’s become common place in our external landscape, I’m reminded that the workplace is one of the last arenas where we still require civility and respect. We as leaders model this in the words we use and how we spend our time. And as you consider how you can lead in way that aligns with our Duke Energy values, I hope you’ll include allyship for colleagues unlike yourself in your plans. Happy pride! Modified from remarks shared with Duke Energy Corporation’s Executive Leadership Team. Party Photo: Ashley Stephenson

Check out what I'm selling: Stacey Abrams Lead from the Outside (Softcover Book): Get up to $30 off* when you use my code JPUSEF to sign up for Mercari. *Terms apply #mercari Lead from the Outside is a necessary guide to harnessing the strengths of being an outsider by Stacey Abrams, one of the most prominent black female politicians in the U.S. Leadership is hard. Convincing others―and often yourself―that you possess the answers and are capable of world-affecting change requires confidence, insight, and sheer bravado. Lead from the Outside is the handbook for outsiders, written with the awareness of the experiences and challenges that hinder anyone who exists beyond the structure of traditional white male power―women, people of color, members of the LGBTQ community, and millennials ready to make a difference. https://lnkd.in/g79-nebC

The Power of Authentic Representation: Taking Charge of Narratives 📚🎥📸 The history, largely told through a narrow lens, sidelines the dynamic experiences of diverse communities. An overdue change beckons— the underrepresented, should retake their narratives, fostering authentic representation across the spectrum of media. Authentic representation isn't a mere request—it's a necessity. Outside interpretations risk devolving into clichéd stereotypes, lacking the depth of lived experiences. Key examples like the Harlem Renaissance, the 70s' Blaxploitation films, LGBTQ literature, and indigenous cinema, depicted diverse voices. However, these remain underrepresented in media, art, literature, photography, and film. Past wrongs must be corrected, reclaiming narratives to ensure accurate and robust representation. In authoring history, one not only challenges systemic injustices but also sets the stage for future generations. This act not only empowers marginalised individuals, but it also allows them to construct a society that truly reflects their diverse experiences. It fosters understanding and helps reduce discrimination, promoting inclusivity and empathy. It's time to seize the pen, the camera, the paintbrush, and etch diverse narratives with resolute pride. These voices matter—now is the time for the world to listen. #AuthenticRepresentation #DiverseVoices #OwnYourStory #Empowerment #Inclusion #HistoryMatters

Have you been a "poster child of diversity" for an organization's benefit? In this clip from our latest show, Dr Luke Fletcher describes the often hidden individual burden and how organizations need to make sure they don't tip over into exploitation. The full episode, covering personal journeys and the latest in LGBTQ leadership development research is live! https://lnkd.in/eJCXKcYm

Today, we honor Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day. Texas was the last state to announce the Emancipation Proclamation, despite the Civil War ending in April of that year and over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. On June 19, 1865, the still enslaved African Americans in Texas finally heard the news that they were free. Today, deep systemic barriers still prevent progress. Black LGBTQ individuals are vastly underrepresented in our political system, leading to policies that often overlook or harm our communities. These candidates face unique challenges, battling not only systemic racism but also homophobia, transphobia, and sexism on the campaign trail. In recent research by LGBTQ Victory Institute, 36% of Black LGBTQ candidate respondents reported facing racism on the campaign trail and 31.9% reported experiencing prejudice because of their sexual orientation, while four in five candidates stated endorsing political organizations biased white candidates over Black candidates. By supporting Black LGBTQ candidates, we amplify voices that have been silenced for far too long and foster a political landscape reflective of our diverse society. Your support can make a profound difference. It can help break down barriers and ensure these candidates have the resources needed to run successful campaigns. Together, we can create a future where everyone is represented and has a seat at the table. This Juneteenth, let’s honor the spirit of freedom and equality by supporting those who are still fighting for it every day. Join us in this vital effort by donating to support Black LGBTQ candidates. https://lnkd.in/eeDExW4m

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a day of profound historical significance and a symbol of freedom and resilience. On June 19, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their emancipation—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Juneteenth reminds us of the enduring fight for equality and the importance of recognizing and honoring this history. It's a time to reflect on the progress made and acknowledge the work still needed to achieve true equality and justice. As we commemorate this day, it's crucial to also highlight the unique struggles faced by Black members of the LGBTQIA community. They endure the compounded challenges of both racial and queer discrimination, fighting for acceptance and equality on multiple fronts. Let’s amplify their voices, support intersectional advocacy, and continue striving for a more inclusive and equitable society for all. Happy Juneteenth! #juneteenth #freedomday #equality #inclusion #lgbtqia #intersectionality #blacklivesmatter

Create your own Financial Independence in a game that hasn’t been created for the majority and still be a winner. Always remember to Thank God as the True Source. #financialindependence ##financialwealth

Building our own for our own is legally possible under Art 1 of the Convention on Civil and Political Rights. Article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) recognizes the right of all peoples to self-determination. This includes the right to: Choose their own form of government Pursue economic, social, and cultural goals Manage and dispose of their own resources Not be deprived of their means of subsistence Civil rights is not enough as it is the OPPOSITE of self-determination in this country which has made us beggars for the crumbs the white people may decide to throw to us. Our lawyers must study international humanitarian law in addition to American law to discern the path to the political and economic freedoms of the White people who exercise self-determination to our detriment