University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education’s Post

How do you future proof your organization? One of the most challenging aspects of addressing workplace inequity is acknowledging that while individuals may not harbor racist intentions, institutions can inadvertently perpetuate bias. This often manifests through a phenomenon known as homosocial reproduction, wherein decision-makers, driven by implicit biases, tend to hire individuals who mirror their own image and background. In organizations grappling with systemic racism, even well-intentioned supervisors, managers, or directors may find themselves struggling against the current. The battle for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is not solely about countering explicit discrimination; it’s about dismantling these subtler, entrenched systems that lack balance. Real change necessitates a top-down approach, where leadership—specifically at the C-Suite and board levels—empowers VPs, directors, and senior managers to actively foster diversity. DEI is not a synonym for reverse racism; it’s a strategy for equilibrium. It’s about enriching our problem-solving capacity by ensuring a multitude of perspectives are at the table, especially when addressing complex, multifaceted issues that defy homogenous thinking. Diversity in the workforce isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic one. Organizations that fail to recognize this are at risk of obsolescence, much like Kmart or Montgomery Ward. In the dynamic landscape of modern business, diversity is not just about fairness—it’s about future-proofing your organization and ensuring that it remains relevant, resilient, and capable of innovation in an increasingly complex world.

Truth is certainly housed in this article. The Remedy must be the Top Agenda. I offer: ‘We have a lot of ‘posting King’ but need more ‘Posting Up’ the protest and actions that close this gap.” Let’s start today from this read and be vigilant in order to bring results for #MLK2025 #closingthewealthgap2024

We all know the iconic words "I have a dream" from MLKs speech delivered 60 years ago. But do you know the whole speech? As an ally to my black colleagues and community this MLK day I encourage everyone to take the 6 minutes it takes to listen to one of the most powerful speeches ever given. It is both a measure of how far we have come and how far we still have to go and is every bit as relevant today as it was then. https://lnkd.in/dprefdDb

In today’s Sunday Times: “Most accounts of the lessons to be drawn from the Black Consciousness era rightly focus on the twin imperative to engage in individual quests to decolonize the mind and collective projects aimed at creating a strong counter-hegemonic group consciousness. One of the underexplored aspects of Black Consciousness philosophy is the imperative to forge what Martin Luther King Jnr, in a different context, called “beloved communities”. This Biko Month we would do well to also focus on Black Consciousness clarion call to forge beloved communities. This imperative is pressing. Our communities are broken. There is nothing communal and edifying about some of our communities…Without viable and convivial communities, the nation cannot be born. Put differently, talks about “National Dialogues” are doomed to just be talks unless there are concerted efforts to rebuilding communities. The National Question will not be resolved without first resolving the community question.” Biko Lives.

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Martin Luther King Jr. As we celebrate Black History Month, let us remember the powerful words of Martin Luther King Jr. Education has been and continues to be a crucial tool in the fight for equality and justice. It is through education that we can break down barriers and create a better world for all. Let us honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by seeking knowledge, challenging our perspectives, and standing up for what is right. Education empowers us to make a difference and create a brighter future for generations to come. So this Black History Month, let us not only celebrate the achievements of the past, but also commit ourselves to the pursuit of education and the advancement of our communities. Let us follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr. and use education as a means to create a more just and equitable society. #BlackHistoryMonth #MartinLutherKingJr #Education #Empowerment #Equality #Justice #ChangeTheWorld #ILiveDiverse #InclusionManagement

As MLK day approaches, I'd urge us to sit with imaginings. Hear and heed the words of Patrisse Cullors, co-founder of Black Lives Matter: "You can't policy your racism away. We no longer have Jim Crow laws, but we have Jim Crow hate. . .We've forgotten how to imagine black life. . .Our imagination has only allowed for us to understand black people as a dying people. We have to change that. . .How do we imagine something different that actually centers on black people, that sees them in the future? Let's imagine something different." What do we imagine for Black people, for racial healing and justice in our communities? Heathmere uses creative dialogue programmings to help create connections that allow us to imagine together. I'd love to hear your imaginings below. (The quotation was taken from Ruth King's powerful book, Mindful of Race. I'm excited to be attending a silent retreat with her this long weekend! For more on her work: https://ruthking.net/ )

Join the Coalition4Justice as we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service (1/15/24), and the National Day of Racial Healing (1/16/24).  Click on the link below to register. https://lnkd.in/efuums2g "RACIAL HEALING: How Can We Create A Culture Of Belonging In The US?"  Do not miss this Reflection, Discussion, and Learning about race relations, and black American struggles for Inclusion, Equity and Justice in the United States, as well as a call for ACTION.

Today, we honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day by celebrating his contributions to breaking barriers to homeownership and his advocacy for increased access and equity for fair housing. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. recognized that housing discrimination was a major aspect of racial injustice. He co-led the Chicago Freedom Movement to combat discrimination in education, employment, and housing. The Chicago Freedom Movement promoted open housing, giving Black Americans the ability to purchase homes anywhere, resulting in significant progress, including the Fair Housing Act of 1968. Although more work still needs to be done to achieve fair housing, together, we can drive equity and change. Share these tips https://lnkd.in/e6jwivKh with your homebuying clients to provide more transparency and education on what to look for. #Homeownership #MLKDay

Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Learn more about the civil rights leader and the struggle for racial equality at https://lnkd.in/du7agyC