WELCOME!
AN INVITATION AND A CALL TO ACTION
Welcome to the first edition of our newsletter, where we’re diving headfirst into the vibrant world of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)! It’s time to roll up our sleeves, rally our spirits, and embark on an exhilarating journey toward building a more inclusive and equitable community.
In a world where unity and understanding are more crucial than ever, we’re here to champion the cause of diversity, equity, and inclusion. From breaking down barriers to embracing unique perspectives, we’re all about creating a tapestry of voices that reflect the rich mosaic of our society.
But why stop at simply acknowledging the importance of DEI? It’s time to take ACTION! Whether it’s sparking conversations, advocating for change, or implementing inclusive policies, each of us has the power to make a profound difference in our community.
So, let’s join hands, hearts, and minds as we embark on this thrilling adventure together. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. Are you ready to be a catalyst for positive change? Let’s do this!
Sincerely,
Sidney R. Edwards
JOIN US!
JUNE COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
JUNE 6
WHEN
11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
WHERE
Village Green RVA 1501 S Providence Rd, North Chesterfield, VA 23236
WHO IS INVITED Board Volunteers, CEOs, Executive Directors and those aspiring to serve on boards.
COST
$35 per attendee
SCAN or CLICK To rEGISTEr
www.ymcarichmond.org
VP of Diversity Equity and Inclusion YMCA OF GREATER RICHMOND Rashi Branche Association Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion YMCA OF GREATER RICHMOND
ADVOCACY IN ACTION
INVEST IN DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND BELONGING
START YOUR OWN DISCUSSION
Advocacy: /’advəkəsē/ Noun. Proactively taking action and building relationships within and across groups to drive positive, structural change on a systemic issue.
PROMPTS TO CONSIDER
• What does the word “advocacy” mean to you? How do you apply it in your every day life and in your place(s) of work?
• What is your goal? Why do you want to achieve this goal?
• How do you begin conversations that might be difficult?
• What challenges do you think you might face along the way?
• Where in your life (your job, your neighborhood,) are there opportunities for advocacy?
ADVOCACY ACTIVITY DIVE DEEPER
Select One or MORE of the eighteen HARVARD IMPLICIT ASSOCIATION TESTS to learn more about biases you may hold.
ANONYMOUS
https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html
SCAN or CLICK To rEGISTEr
MARCH CONVERSATION
DEI and the Employee Experience
The first Community Conversation was moderated by Jonathan Zur of VCIC to discuss the employee experience related to DEl and Belonging in our region. Following this conversation, Shanza Isom of BeWell: Self-Care & Holistic Life Balance led attendees through a Centering Moment.
Jonathan Zur’s Slides
Shanza Isom’s Slides
Experience Survey Results
“I didn’t know what to expect but was pleasantly surprised at how fun the event was. I got to know my teammates better and was exposed to practical things to take back to my organization.”
March Conversation Attendee
GET INVOLVED: Interested in being a part of the Advancing DEI planning?
Join a committee, volunteer at events or support logistical work.
Email Sidney Edwards at edwardssi@ymcarichmond.org
www.ymcarichmond.org
FOLLOW
CONVERSATION WHO WILL YOU INVITE TO THE JUNE COMMUNITY CONVERATION? FOLLOW US!
THE