Jonah Nigh’s Post

From website: "Everyone can sign the Read in Color® pledge indicating your commitment to read and share diverse books to amplify marginalized voices! Whether you are a Little Free Library steward, patron, book lover, or community member, you can have a role in celebrating diversity in your community. Read in Color starts with books, but the potential for engagement goes far beyond their pages. Read in Color® brings diverse books to Little Free Library book-sharing boxes around the world. Read in Color distributes books that provide perspectives on racism and social justice; celebrate BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized voices; and incorporate experiences from all identities for all readers. Only 46% of children’s books depict non-white characters. We believe everyone should be able to see themselves in the pages of a book. We also know that books can be a window into experiences that are different from our own. By reading diverse books, we can increase understanding, empathy, and inclusion. Sign the Read in Color Pledge! Check out what Read in Color pledge signers have shared about their commitment to diverse books."

This post perfectly articulates the need for a shift in focus within the DEI industry. By acknowledging its roots in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight against White supremacy, we can begin to dismantle systemic inequities and work towards true justice and equality. The emphasis on values, history, and collective action is crucial for meaningful change. It's time for DEI efforts to move beyond surface-level engagement and profit-driven motivations to truly address the issues. #antiracist #diversity #inclusion #equity

Last week, I attended a facilitated session focused on developing a racial equality kitemark, an initiative that I believe is essential for our community, which already has a foundational framework in place. However, as I reflect on the discussions and the sentiments expressed during the session, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of unease about the readiness of our Black community to embrace genuine change. Each day, I hear the passionate cries of our people as they highlight the myriad issues we face, yet there seems to be a pervasive reluctance to actively engage in the transformative work necessary to effect real progress. This dissonance is particularly disheartening when I consider the older generation, those who have valiantly paved the way for us, yet often seem to cast blame outward rather than taking ownership of their role in our community's evolution. As I work closely with our youth, I find myself questioning what kind of example our community leaders have set for them to emulate — are their actions truly reflective of the change they advocate for, or are they trapped in an endless loop of complaint without constructive direction? During the kitemark meeting, I ultimately decided to leave, as I sensed a disconnect between the values upheld by those present and my own deeply held beliefs about accountability and proactive engagement. So I ask, when will we collectively choose to stop merely lamenting our circumstances and start taking meaningful action? We are fully aware of the challenges that face us; what’s required now is a unified commitment to tackling those challenges head-on, moving beyond rhetoric and into a space where we can all contribute to the change we so desperately seek.

As we celebrate this vibrant and empowering month, it’s important to remember the significance of pride and the impact it has on so many. Visibility & Representation: Pride Month provides a platform for LGBTQIA+ individuals to be seen and heard. Representation matters, and seeing diverse identities celebrated helps to normalize and validate the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people. Community & Support: Pride events and activities foster a sense of community and belonging. They offer a safe space for people to connect, share their stories, and support one another. Advocacy & Education: Pride month is an opportunity to educate others and advocate for equal rights. It highlights the ongoing struggles and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community, paving the way for a more inclusive and accepting society. Self-Expression & Authenticity: Being able to be yourself without fear of judgement or discrimination is crucial for mental and emotional well-being. Inspiration & Empowerment: Seeing others live authentically and proud can inspire and empower individuals to embrace their own identities. Continue to support and uplift one another. Not just during Pride month, but all year round. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels safe and free to be themselves 🌈🏳️⚧️

🗓️ June is one of my favourite months of the year 6️⃣ 🌈 While I read posts celebrating Pride Month, I realize is also the 13th anniversary of the Ruggie’s “Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. “🔖 The intersection of both occasions is clear: business have a vital role towards the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people. And businesses are built by the people! As I reflect on my journey towards an LGBTQIA+ ally, here are some steps I have taken: ➡️ I took time to educate myself on language use or historical events such as the Stonewall riots. ➡️ I tried to ask and listen before stating. Because only members of the community can say what feels right - or wrong. ➡️ I worked to challenge and unlearn the biases ingrained in my upbringing. ➡️ I started to speak out against exclusive statements or microagressions. Today beyond my corporate role, I continue on my learning journey. 🏳️🌈🏳️🌈Because the basics are in the Human Rights Declaration: all human beings are equal. #pridemonth #humanrights

Today, we honor Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. This day marks a crucial milestone in our history, but it also reminds us that the journey toward true equality and justice is ongoing. At PCC, we recognize that the fight for racial equality is far from over. The echoes of past injustices still resonate today, and it is our responsibility to address these issues within our workplaces and communities. Juneteenth is a time for reflection and action. We are making sure to recommit to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, where equality is not just an ideal, but a reality for everyone. #Juneteenth #RacialEquality #DiversityAndInclusion #HRConsulting #CommitmentToChange

Top tips for championing inclusivity during Pride month...and beyond! 🌈 Be an ally, learn about LGBTQIA+ issues to enhance your understanding and support of the community. 🌈 Examine and challenge your own biases to cultivate a more inclusive mindset. 🌈 Confront discriminatory language or behaviours, promoting respect and acceptance. 🌈 Utilise inclusive language and pronouns to foster a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. 🌈 Listen to LGBTQIA+ experiences and concerns with empathy and without judgement. 🌈 Advocate for policies and practices that promote equality and protect against discrimination. LGBTQIA+ inclusion should take place 365 days of the year. This is why Lifetime Group has its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy in place to make sure we’re always considering the rights and needs of the LGBTQIA+ community when decisions are being made, and to avoid any kind of ‘performative allyship’.

Last week, I had the opportunity to partner with Profitable Ideas Exchange to facilitate a panel discussion as a part of the DEI Community Roundtable. This was a unique experience in which we centered queer voices and elevated some Bozeman organizations that support 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across the Gallatin Valley and Montana 🌈 This energetic discussion provided space for dialogue between queer-supporting organizations and local private and non-profit companies. Representatives from Bridgercare, The Countship of the ISCSM (Imperial Sovereign Court of the State of Montana), Pride House, MT Trans Closet, and Queer Bozeman shared some of the following calls to action for local companies and organizations: ✅ Donate your time and money. No time or amount is too small. ✅ Be visibly supportive: share or repost activities and events, resources, logos, etc. and take advantage of educational opportunities. ✅ Do the work: be curious; ask questions; read, research, and expose yourself to difference on a regular basis. I am incredibly proud to have provided a platform for these local 2SLGBTQIA+ serving organizations to share about their missions, challenges, and actions of allyship. It brings me joy to know that in this space, we lifted the voices of those with boots on the ground, doing this impactful work. I genuinely believe Bozeman and other MT communities are safer and more aware with organizations like these having meaningful conversations with local business owners and associates 🤝 So, my call to action is to think beyond this month, Pride Month. As we approach the USA presidential election later this year as well as understand the human rights that are being jeopardized, how do you show up? Moving beyond the individual, and as sparked by the reflected panel discussion, in what ways is your organization staying informed, showing support, and doing the work? Curious to hear your thoughts below 🤔 ⬇ #pride #bozemanpride #montanapride #dei #communityengagement #allyship #corporateallyship

Check out these valuable insights on inclusion in the workplace from one of my Brand Strategy clients, Coach Dora. I'm working with her on a long-term roll-out of: • Visual Identity Design • Brand Voice and Value Positioning • Social Media Marketing • Web Design (CoachDoraMendez.com) If you would like to book a FREE strategy conversation for your business, click Here: http://bit.ly/4c6O73G #branding #brandstrategy #visualidentity

Wondering what all the commotion is about? Check out this post and see the website for more information on how to apply, selection criteria and the timeline...