What We're Getting Wrong About DEI: Critical Mistakes that Block Belonging

Date

Tuesday, June 13, 2023
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (PT)
Check-in and Networking at 8:30 a.m., Presentation at 9:00 a.m.
Light Breakfast Provided.

Event Description

Title
What We're Getting Wrong About DEI: Critical Mistakes that Block Belonging

Presenter
Erica Briggs, Nonprofit Education Specialist, NAO

Although diversity initiatives have been around for decades, the effectiveness of impact is less than ideal. With the recent awakening of social justice issues, a renewed focus has poured into organizational efforts. Still, this renewal risks falling into the same traps of previous actions, which may do more harm than good in some cases.

This is illustrated in current studies that reflect the experience of historically marginalized communities; despite organizational efforts, daily realities such as dealing with microaggressions inhibit a sense of belonging in the workplace. This session will review current research on best practices for this work and highlight the "good intentions" that further marginalize and implode DEI initiatives.

We will:

• Identify and analyze the common mistakes that organizations make when implementing DEI initiatives and how they can hinder belonging and performance.
• Explore the best practices and strategies for creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture that fosters a sense of belonging for all employees.
• Apply the principles of DEI to your own work context and develop an action plan for addressing the gaps and challenges you face.

For accommodation requests, please contact us at training@nonprofitoregon.org. Advanced notice of at least 10 days is appreciated.

About the Presenter

Erica Briggs, Nonprofit Education Specialist, NAO Erica Briggs is a facilitator of learning, DEI consultant, community caretaker, creative artist and author. In each capacity she is a storyteller, sharing stories related to developing a more transparent and fluid identity, embracing culture, and aligning with nature to better heal, grow and sustain mental health and well-being.  A native Oregonian, Briggs has lived and worked across the country and overseas. Currently, she serves as a Nonprofit Education Specialist at NAO; Facilitator of Learning for the Anti-Defamation League; and is the founder and CEO of a small arts and nature nonprofit based in Troutdale.  As a single mother, she earned a BA in Communications at Mills College in Oakland, CA and a Master's in Africana Studies at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY where she studied the social construction of race in America.  For over 25 years, she has served various roles in asset-based community nonprofits, and both traditional and alternative learning environments from elementary through college. When she is at play you will likely find her wandering in her garden, making a mess in her art studio, or hiking with her children to the nearest body of water.

Thank You Sponsor

Partner Sponsor: Umpqua Bank

Cost

$40 NAO Members
$60 Nonmembers

This event is Member Pass eligible.
LCNN Member Pass holders may register for events within this specific network. Your unique discount code may be used for ten registrations (per pass). Passes are shareable across your organization.

If you have any questions or trouble registering, contact training@nonprofitoregon.org. 

Location

Please note: NAO will follow the masking guidelines of the venue in which we are holding this session. To make sure you have the most accurate information, all registrants will be notified of the venue-specific policy in advance of the session.