GEICO’s Post

Awareness is important

April is #DisabilityAwarenessMonth at Conduent, focused on growing support and understanding of disabilities in the workplace. A highlight, this month, is a panel discussion with President and CEO Cliff Skelton and Board Chair Scott Letier on “Caring for a child with special needs.” Learn more about events like these here: https://lnkd.in/gqPy2id5

“But it is not bravery; I have no choice. I wake up and live my life. Don't you do the same?” And that’s what each of us do, including people with disabilities. It isn’t bravery it’s simply working with whatever one has got in best possible manner. Aria Mia Loberti, who is legally blind, walked the red carpet of Golden Globes with her guide dog, making Globes history. Casting a blind person in a movie to play a blind character is one thing, giving a platform of Golden Globe to the person for her great performance is absolutely GREAT. No, it is not great; it is basic/obvious/logical, like in case of any other performer. Atleast this once, Golden Globe ‘walk the talk’ We have a collective responsibility to ensure that equal opportunities are given to all of us without discrimination. That our infrastructure supports every individual. We as a society have to ensure that each one of us feel comfortable even in our disabilities in public domain or in this case the coveted red carpet. We all know what are the right things to do but are we actually doing those things? In words of Verna Myers- Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance. #goldenglobes #inclusion #diversity #diversityandinclusion #disability #celebratetogether

>“I think far too often, leaders don’t ask the question, ‘How do you work best?’” said Rachel Lowenstein, global head of innovation inclusion at Mindshare, later adding that “the biggest barrier right now is creating new ways of working,” whether in individual working styles, hiring practices, or leadership training. “There needs to be those broad industry shifts to be able to get more disabled talent into the pipeline.” #DisabilityInclusion #RepresentationMatters #disability #DisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #advertising #diversity #DisabledEmployees #inclusion #EmployeeExperience #InvisibleDisabilities

So powerful & important

Judging the AAF’s Mosaic Awards for Toledo has been an incredible journey into the heart of creativity, advocacy and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.           The raw talent displayed by the candidates was nothing short of amazing — a true celebration of the rich tapestry that makes our communities unique and vibrant. From groundbreaking creative works to transformative advocacy, these individuals and companies are shaping a future that is inclusive for all. The Mosaic Awards recognize the dedication of those who go above and beyond, amplifying underrepresented communities with depth and authenticity. Their initiatives transcend mere recognition; they create a cultural impact that resonates and sustains over time. It’s not just about representation; it’s about fostering a genuine understanding of BIPOC, LGBTQIA and Disability communities. Every winning entry showcases a unique vision, a lens through which we gain a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of the narratives that need to be heard. These creators and companies are not just promoting diversity; they’re driving systemic change through and inclusivity. Cheers to the Mosaic Awards for recognizing and honoring those who are making a difference, challenging norms, and building a world where everyone’s story matters. #AFF #MosaicAwards

We just shared this fresh roundup of news about top DEI leaders across the country with members of our Senior Executive DEI Think Tank. Discover peers taking on big new roles, winning awards, and earning media coverage for DEI initiatives. Among the DEI leaders making news this week: -Noël France named one of the 15 most influential women in diversity -Jon G. Muñoz joins Travel Leisure as its Senior VP of environmental, social and governance -Debra Quade (she-her) leads Kellogg Company to be named One of the Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion -Charissa Jaganath named a top DEIB practitioner in CRN Magazine’s first Inclusive Channel Leaders list for 2023 -Lyndsey Hoffman named an Inclusive Channel Leader in CRN Magazine’s first Inclusive Channel Leaders list for 2023 -Wayne Gersie hired as the new VP of equity and inclusion at Quinnipiac University -Cedric Rockamore leads American Airlines to be named one of the best places to work for disability inclusion based on the Disability Equality Index -Sharifa A. Anderson leads Fannie Mae to two DEI recognitions -Regina Curry leads Franklin Templeton to receive top marks in the 2023 Disability Equality Index Read all of the headlines we just added to #DEINews here: https://lnkd.in/gQxMt5ZH #SeniorExecutive #DEI #diversity #equity #inclusion #diversityandinclusion #diversityinclusion #SeniorExecutiveDEI #deitraining #deistrategy #deileaders

As a gay person, this year I feel a need to be present but also aware that pride is every day for me and my immediate network. In the last number of years, I’ve led pride initiatives across the community and companies where I’ve held leadership positions in employee resource groups. This year is different. I feel a tinge of anxiety as Pride Month begins and see the immediate hyper focus on the community and question the true authentic nature of the efforts. I also am not in the leadership seat this year, and that’s okay. I’m a bit tired after years of leading efforts. I know that sitting as lead of employee resource groups, the people in these positions truly care; give immense/unpaid effort to support their minority representation; and often burn themselves out this month with the immense expectations to lead panels, parades, lunch & learns, and community efforts. I think one of the best things you can do as a member of the community, ally, or advocate during June: - Thank your BRG/ERG leaders who generally do this work as a volunteer with budgets that require magic (and often require your leaders to pay out of their own pockets to make things work). Your leaders are up before dawn and attending events until dusk to represent you, the company, and the community. Remember, these folks are also doing the best they can with extremely limited resources. - Show up to events you commit to attending. Try not to cancel last minute. - If you work in HR or DEI, and you care about inclusion, this is a great month to show it by your actions and not just words of support. Remember, we get into these areas of focus to support people. We should want to show that support. - Remember to have a holistic view of all of the intersections that make a company diverse and inclusive. Yes, it’s Pride Month, but how can you include everyone and amplify our message of community? It’s also a great chance to check yourself. Did you show up for Black History Month events; Disability Empowerment Events; and all of the other events the represent each diverse and unique community, as often times these intersections overlap. If we don’t show up for others throughout the year to amplify and support, we should take stock. - Are you posting rainbows 🌈 without action? Or just to give the perception of support? While the community appreciates the rainbow merch and social media presence, if that’s the only action taken, it may be worth evaluating. We all have busy lives, but even small actions outside of posting a rainbow make a difference to people who truly want to be seen and heard and not tokenized. Also, remember that our planet needs a lot of love right now, so think about your swag and be thoughtful about it. Is it just going to end up in the garbage and pollute our planet in need of the love we seek? Off my soapbox, but I wish everyone an immensely meaningful Pride Month. Be safe. Be present. Be inclusive. Be thoughtful.

Today marks a truly humbling moment in my career – I am beyond grateful to be the recipient of the Denver Hutt Rising Star Award. Established in 2016, this award is not just a recognition but a symbol of the spirit that Denver so passionately embodied – a spirit of relentless innovation, engagement, and collaboration in the real estate industry. Denver Hutt, in her short but impactful tenure at MIBOR taught us that making a difference isn’t tied to the length of one’s career, but to the depth of one’s passion and commitment. Her mantra, “If not now, when?” is a powerful reminder that we don’t need to wait for a “right time” to make a significant impact. As a National Association of REALTORS® member I’ve strived to align my work with my core values of PEOPLE, QUALITY, SERVICE, and INNOVATION. This award is not just for me, but for everyone who has been part of my journey – clients, colleagues, mentors, and the vibrant LGBTQ Real Estate Alliance community. Together, we’re not just buying and selling homes; we’re building relationships , nurturing dreams and creating a better tomorrow for those around us. Let’s continue to build together, innovate, and transform lives through real estate. Here’s to many more years of learning, growing, and making a positive impact – together! #RisingStar #RealEstateExcellence #DenverHuttLegacy #CommunityBuilding #LockstepRealty #exprealty