Three Wishes for Unbounded Possibilities: A Journey Beyond DEI Constraints
In the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we are often encumbered by the weight of systemic barriers, historical prejudice, and the complexities of human bias. It's easy to feel restrained by what is immediately actionable, rather than inspired by the boundless possibilities of what could be. But what if, for a moment, we were handed a magic wand capable of obliterating these constraints? If given three wishes to transform the landscape of DEI, what transformative visions would we dare to dream up?
The inspiration for this comes from the book "Presence" by Peter Senge Et Al (2004). The author encourages readers to imagine a world free of limitations and envision their ideal state. A process utilised in organisations including Microsoft to develop strategies and new practices.
The power of this thought experiment isn't merely in the whimsy of wishful thinking but in its ability to unlock the depths of our imagination and empathy. I've had the privilege of facilitating this exercise with various groups, and each time I'm struck by the profound insights and desires that emerge. It's a testament to the human capacity for envisioning a world defined by inclusivity and fairness when given permission to dream without limits.
My 3 wishes…
1. That all leaders could be empowered in approaching DEI, not concerned about getting it wrong. This could lead to more psychological safety, an openness to consider others and most of all for individuals including leaders to feel at though they belong in an organisation.
2. That organisations seek to understand how Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategies can be simple. That they allow them to see an unlock hidden potential within their workplace, providing confidence to make informed decisions that support everyone.
3. To be able to create incredibly innovational approaches to DEI, it is no longer enough just to roll out the cupcakes when on special days. Allowing our imagination to flow and consider everything differently.
Embracing these wishes, we step into a realm of potentiality that challenges us to rethink the status quo and reimagine the foundations of a truly inclusive society. This exercise, while framed in the context of imagination, serves a critical purpose: it highlights the underlying desires and values that drive our collective efforts towards a more equitable world. It sheds light on the shared humanity that connects us, pushing us to strive not just for what seems attainable within our current constraints but for what lies beyond them, in a place where our aspirations for diversity, equity, and inclusion know no bounds.
As we reflect on these wishes, I would like you to consider them not as distant fantasies but as a guide to the journey ahead. Let's harness the power of our collective imagination to inspire actionable change, challenging ourselves and those around us to transform these wishes into reality.
Now, I turn the floor over to you. What would you wish for that could have a profound impact on DEI?
How can we, as a community of professionals, leverage our resources, influence, and creativity to inch closer to this imagined future?
Let us know your thoughts, wishes, and insights as we collectively navigate this journey towards a more inclusive world?
If you are interested in booking a session to see how we could address your wishes click here: https://eqaulitygroup.zohobookings.com.au/#/eqaulitygroup