Diversity, Equity, Inclusion AND Belonging
At its core, diversity, equity, inclusion, AND belonging form the foundation of my brand. My mission is to elevate conversations about neurodiversity—an often invisible disability—while fostering a more empathetic and inclusive world. Understanding neurodiversity, like visible disabilities, is crucial in building a culture of acceptance and care.
Diversity: Diversity is a fact. It's all around us—different skin colors, backgrounds, experiences, sexual orientations, abilities, and more. And it's essential that individuals in these often marginalized groups feel a genuine sense of belonging.
Equity: Equity is a conscious decision. It's not about treating everyone the same; it's about meeting individuals where they are and addressing their unique needs. Whether someone communicates using augmentative devices, relies on a wheelchair for mobility, or requires sensory input for regulation, equity ensures everyone has what they need to thrive.
Inclusion: Inclusion is the actionable step we take (or sometimes, sadly, don't take) to seek more profound understanding. It's not a box to check—it's a continuous practice that brings diverse voices and perspectives into spaces where they are valued.
Belonging: Belonging is the sense of safety and love that emerges from true inclusion. When diversity, equity, and inclusion are authentically integrated, a sense of belonging naturally follows, enabling people to show up as their whole, authentic selves.
This week, during a training session focused on the intersection of leadership, development, and DEIB, I was reminded of how vital these principles are to the 'yes, AND' brand. As my call to action, I wanted to share what I have learned with you.
This space was created to promote inclusion through diverse resources, accessible insights, and welcoming connections. In fact, Forbes recently highlighted that cognitive diversity, or diversity of thought, is crucial in 2024. They noted, "Cognitive diversity is the idea that people in a group don't need to look different or identify with an underrepresented group to bring varying, diverse viewpoints to the table."
To bring diverse perspectives, one must be willing to listen consciously and challenge one's thinking. A desire to learn, accept, and seek to understand creates a culture of belonging—a more understanding culture filled with allyship.
The Center for Creative Leadership defines allyship as "a set of actions, behaviors, and practices that leaders undertake to support, amplify, and advocate for others, particularly those who may not share the same social identities."
Allyship calls us to action. It's not enough to simply acknowledge differences; we must actively seek to understand before striving to be understood. This work calls us to contribute to meaningful change.
What is one actionable step you can take after reading this?
Dive into DEIB research
Look at ‘yes, AND’ Glossary Blog to learn more about neurodivergence
Share these insights with a friend.
Challenge your own thinking.
Take what you need; give what you can.
Sending love and light,
-Court
