Why Bother with DEI?

Summary

This session addresses barriers to successful DEI work and how to move through those barriers toward growth and innovation. Tension, fear, and anger are normal responses to cultural clashes. Too often we choose silence to avoid the tension rather than creating space to learn and develop.

Training Details & Format

• 2 Hours  

• Live Virtual Session or In-Person Session

• Unlimited Participants

Learning Objectives

• Articulate the benefits of curious engagement with colleagues who think, function, and relate differently.

• Implement skills to navigate tension that occurs within DEI conversations

• Identify and address common barriers to effective DEI efforts

Skills & Core Concepts Addressed

• The underestimated keystone to successful DEI Work

• Five Main Barriers to DEI Work

• Building Bridges

• Observe, Listen, Inquire Framework

Why this? Why now?

Avoiding DEI work allows fear and division to flourish, missing the chance to enhance innovation and growth. Despite the urgency, the barriers to starting these conversations can be overwhelming. Initiating DEI efforts to foster diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments demonstrates to employees that healthy communication is crucial, particularly in navigating emotions like fear and anger.

What is Artesian Collaborative’s approach to this issue?

This training initiates healthy conversations with our therapists fostering a secure space for diverse perspectives. Safety is essential for addressing barriers in meaningful DEI work. Using the Observe, Listen, and Inquire Framework, we explore perspectives hindering DEI engagement, empowering participants to authentically collaborate and craft team-specific solutions.

Participant Feedback

“Through this training I have realized that we do not make time to have honest conversations about DEI topics at our organization. Learning about others’ experiences has made me realize there is an urgent need for us to do so.”

“My gender and culture both are in the minority here, but the openness to discuss and have your team articulate the problems using a solution focussed lens which is practical and feasible for us all, has been very helpful. I left the session very inspired and motivated, but more hopeful for the possibility of change.”

“The Artesian Collaborative trainers have such an amazing and insightful approach. The observe, listen, inquire framework was a great way to engage. I LOVED this session.”

“This training allowed space for questioning and admitting shortcomings while also still seeing how we can learn and grow with our strengths.”