This week’s ‘Start Where You Are’ Challenge: Ask people how they want to learn about topics related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

With Black History Month and several D&I and cultural observances right around the corner, don’t just default to your routine activities or search for “best practices.” On the advice of a proponent of design thinking:

1. Invite as many stakeholders as possible into the discussion.

2. Pilot ideas and gather feedback.

3. Make adjustments as needed.

4. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

For learning around DEIB topics to be impactful, it has to be personally meaningful — and that requires engagement. Some people may prefer small, intimate discussions, or personal storytelling, or book clubs, or hearing from speakers. Whatever the solutions turn out to be, just avoid making assumptions.

Originally published at https://www.jessicabantom.com on January 27, 2021.