Valuable DEI Content and Discussion Questions Jan.-March 2024

TED talk: The Mission to Safeguard Black History in the US (Julieanna L. Richardson)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-sKZBcLKP4

Discussion Questions:

• Reflect on and share with the group your own history.  How does reflecting on your own history contribute to a broader appreciation of Black history?
• In what ways can learning about Black history promote understanding and unity among diverse communities?
• Julieanna talks about several historical figures and events throughout her presentation.  Which of these stories or figures stood out to you and why?
• How does acknowledging and celebrating Black history help us combat systemic racism?
• If you reflect on Colin Powell’s quote from the TED talk “No one can change their yesterdays, but all of us can change our tomorrows.”  What does this mean to you? 

Cultural Renovation (Brené Brown)

https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-with-kevin-oakes-on-cultural-renovation/

Discussion Questions:

• Brené and Kevin talk about the influencers, the energizers, and the blockers with regard to change.  If you reflect on change you’ve been a part of, can you think of a time you have been a blocker?  What about an influencer or energizer?
• This episode aired in Jan. 2021 and they discuss how the events of 2020 brought out a lot more emotion and empathy in leadership and work relationships.  Now that it is Jan. 2024, do you feel that we’ve shifted away from this or maintained some of it for the better?
• Communication is very important to cultural change.  What are some of the biggest barriers to communication?  What can be done to avoid or overcome these barriers?
• One of Kevin’s “18 Leadership Actions to Build an Unshakeable Company” is to develop and deploy a comprehensive listening strategy.  What beliefs or values around workplace culture do you hold that your leadership might be surprised to hear?

TED talk:  From Wages to Wealth: The Future of the Female Workforce (Bri Seeley) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DA83nI3ve2M

Discussion Questions:

• Seeley suggests that women often undervalue their work and services. How can this undervaluation be addressed, both on an individual level and within organizations?
• How can companies and organizations create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for women, where they have equal opportunities to build wealth?
• The speaker emphasizes the need for women to redefine success on their own terms. What does success mean to you personally, and how do you think it can be redefined in the context of the female workforce?
• In conclusion, what are some key takeaways from Bri Seeley's talk, and how can they be applied to promote gender equality and financial empowerment in the workplace?