Mental Health Stigma: It's Time to Start Listening and Stop Judging

Kendrick Lamar's SuperBowl performance was ingenious. From culturally relevant music to subtle and not-so-subtle messages, he made an impact on the world's biggest stage. Until people began talking about it, I was oblivious to the indirect messages. For example, I did not remember Serena Williams doing the Crip walk at Wimbleton in 2012, and all of the backlash she received. I totally missed the cue that Samuel L. Jackson was "Uncle Sam," similar to his Django Unchained character. Uncle Sam, as a older Black man asked, "Don't you know how to play the game?" as if to make sure that Kendrick Lamar, a younger Black man, knew how to play the game of making Whites feel comfortable by code switching, compromising, and disassociating from Black culture. I also did not understand the imagery behind the dancers forming a divided American flag with a Black man, Kendrick Lamar, in the center of the division. Beyond a few songs, Kendrick Lamar orchestrated a loaded but brilliant performance. As we reflect on what's next for the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility industry, it is imperative that we understand what's really happening and apply a lens of creativity to our strategy. Currently, we are too reactive and there is a segment of the population who's energized by our shocked and angry reactions. Further, the opposition's playbook is rooted in a skewed or inaccurate version of history; there is no vision for the future. The anti-DEIA movement is designed to overwhelm us with chaos, confusion, and misinformation, as well as to sow division between each identity group. Need examples? The SCOTUS Affirmative Action decision used Asian-Americans to make the case for discrimination in College Admissions with Black and Latino students only. Anti-DEIA messaging stretches this decision to say that SCOTUS rendered all Diversity efforts illegal . That's not true. The "mass deportation" efforts that use camera crews to scare immigrants, although the current rate of deportations will be lower than Joe Biden's 2024 numbers. Why are legal immigrants cheering on deportation? For some of these Americans, an outsider is an outsider, regardless of your legal status. The "Department of Labor" statistic that only 4% of Blacks benefited from DEIA programs. As a result, Blacks were fuming at White women and angry at the DEIA myth. I tried to track down this so-called "Department of Labor" data and the only thing that I could find was a 1995 statistic pertaining to Affirmative Action , which is different from DEIA. The 4% number sounded alot like the data in Figure A, that has been debunked by Diversity experts. As you can see, the 76% number has been repeated in this recent "Department of Labor" statitistic as the percentage of White women that have benefited from DEIA. It's also interesting that the title changed from 'Chief Diversity Officer Statistics by Race' to Here's Who Benefited Most from DEIA. The reason Figure A was debunked is because we don't know how this data was gathered; whether companies who did not have a Chief Diversity Officer simply named their HR Officer as the Inclusion lead; whether this data is regional, national, or international; how many companies participated in this survey; what is the timeframe or date for the data or data collection; why Affirmative Action labels (race and gender) were the only data sets collected for DEIA; or can this data be corroborated by other studies? FIGURE A. DEBUNKED DIVERSITY DATA Let's be careful NOT to go down the rabbit hole with the divisive data, or misinformation, that could be disseminated over the next few years. We need to ask logical questions about the reliability and veracity of the studies. For example, the North Carolina Department of Labor decided to dismantle their Diversity work based on a sloppy study that was published by Rutgers University. In respect to sustaining our work, there are certain questions we must ask: How do we get out of politics and go beyond the business case? Currently, we HOPE every 4-8 years, Diversity work will have a different trajectory. Hope is not enough. So long as Diversity is on the ballot, we are placing our hands in a volatile movement that seeks to retain power in the hands of a few. The same thing with the business case-- CEO's, University Presidents, Nonprofit Executive Directors, Boards, and Shareholders have the power to determine whether Diversity comes or goes. Once again, the impetus for Diversity can shift with changes in leadership. How can we ensure Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility becomes the human-centered element that balances global technological advancements? In a knowledge economy, user experiences are king. Diversity presents a global opportunity to capitalize on understanding user nuances; managing and collecting data that leads to better insights; ensuring that systems are accessible; and delivering safe, truthful, and transparent outputs that result in fair outcomes. Presenting Diversity from this vantage-point can empower our efforts to recruit and engage the next generation of leaders. How do we consistently tell the stories about our impact? It's amazing that so many people still do not know what we do or understand what Diversity is. One thing is for certain, for the first time, people are finally hearing about the terrific work that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility leaders perform. But it's too late. We're telling these stories as companies/government agencies lay off workers! Who knew that we did all of these meaningful things? Most folks simply listened to anti-DEIA talking points, which neither explained what Diversity is, nor contributed to a dialogue about how it benefits average every-day people. Where do we go from here? There are countless articles saying: DEIA is dead. It is not. Even the NY Post concedes that the anti-DEIA camp can't stop Diversity. Nevertheless, our intent is not simply to keep it going; we want it to thrive. Diversity is the future; it does not center the past. From the demographics and removing barriers to problem solving and innovation, organizations function best when they value inclusive excellence in the workplace and marketplace. Our work must also address how to engage those who felt left behind in our Post-George Floyd push, as well as ensure that different groups can acknowledge their uniqueness while moving forward in unity. Notice that the anti-DEIA needle continues to shift. It went from DEI must die and DEI is dead, to everyone's quitting DEI and DEI is responsible for every disaster. While the anti-DEIA narrative is becoming more tactical, we must address the long-term implications of our work and the means by which we will achieve our goals. This is strategic. To focus on strategy means that we are going to be intentional about: FIGURE B: ACHIEVING LIBERATION IN EMPLOYMENT, EDUCATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP Removing the props and barriers that prevent true equality and full inclusion (see Figure B); ensuring that everyone is given a fair opportunity; Continuing to integrate and align Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility throughout organizations, systems, and policies; Preparing our organizations for a future where intersectionality, or overlapping identities, will be more important to one's experiences than their race or gender alone; Acquiring better data and insights about changing Behaviors, Expectations, Attitudes, and Needs, as well as applying this new knowledge to all aspects of the business including marketing, technology, research & development, talent management, customer service, investor relations, etc.; and Measuring how Diversity impacts business performance and the bottom line using data analytics. This includes influencing reductions in discrimination, harassment, and retaliation; improving end-to-end experiences for workers and customers; designing fairness initiatives (such as fair pay, flexible work, paid time off, etc.); and prioritizing accessibility. In the words of Kendrick Lamar, "The revolution 'bout to be televised, you picked the right time but the wrong guy." Get more creative-- we're the right people and this is the best time. "Stop Being Reactive" is Part I of a series. Make sure you read what's next for the Diversity industry.

To Solve a Tough Problem, Change How You Define It Diversity goes beyond polarizing concepts such as Black/White, Male/Female, or Gay/Straight. This outdated approach excludes individuals who do not fit neatly into these categories, and the language itself can be divisive in a Knowledge + Experience economy. Today, people identify as unique individuals with intersectional identities, adding layers to their behaviors, expectations, attitudes, and needs. Forward-thinking organizations are addressing this evolving business reality by redefining Diversity and applying the next generation of management skills. The Competitive Edge of DEIA In today's competitive landscape, elevating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) in the workplace is a strategic advantage. Companies that fail to embrace DEIA effectively risk alienating talent, customers, and stakeholders. However, those who implement it thoughtfully stand to gain innovation, engagement, and sustainable success. The difference between success and failure lies in the ability to shift perspectives, redefine challenges, and implement human-centered solutions. Transforming Challenges into Opportunities For over 15 years, the Institute for Diversity Certification (IDC) has been at the forefront of DEIA transformation. By fine-tuning research-based materials, global case studies, and high-end technology, IDC helps organizations use DEIA strategies to increase profitability, reduce risks, and achieve organizational goals. IDC empowers individuals and organizations to unlock the untapped potential of diverse talent while enhancing experiences for all stakeholders. Our groundbreaking programs equip professionals with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to create inclusive environments that foster respect, engagement, and real value. Moving Beyond Divisiveness to Innovation It is time to move beyond outdated narratives and embrace diversity in its full complexity. Say goodbye to divisiveness and barriers to effectiveness—say hello to big ideas, human-centered solutions, and transformative leadership. IDC inspires innovative leaders to reshape workplace cultures, design accessible spaces, and implement fair practices that drive results. Whether you are an individual professional or an organization ready to take DEIA to the next level, IDC provides the expertise to support your journey.

Instead of lulling employees into complacency with imaginary thoughts that they are automatically better than other workers because "they're not Black," employers must continuously encourage all individuals to upskill, reskill, and cross-skill. Inspiring excellence in a knowledge economy is challenging work—especially when an anti-Black narrative exacerbates existing stereotypes and biases. In this era, some people are saying the quiet racist part out loud, but that doesn’t make it true. Merit occurs when there are high standards, written expectations (i.e., job descriptions), regular performance reviews, increased/improved outputs, and competitive stakes. You can't call it "merit" if people are fearful of competing to be the best. Further, winning in "merit" does not entail disparaging the competition simply because of how they look. Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation, creativity, and competition. When people from different backgrounds bring varied experiences and perspectives, it pushes everyone to perform at a higher level. True inclusion means setting the stage for fair and open competition, where skills, expertise, and contributions—not biased perceptions—determine success. Do the hard work—encourage excellence with lifelong learning and unfettered competition. Equip managers to give honest feedback instead of letting employees make up stories in their heads. Let the best person win based on their merit, not on outdated prejudices or fabricated superiority. Companies that embrace this mindset will not only build stronger teams but will also drive greater success in a dynamic and evolving marketplace. It’s time to redefine workplace excellence and commit to fair, competitive environments where diversity is not just a buzzword but a catalyst for progress.

Oppressive forces thrive on emotional exhaustion. They count on your anger, your overwhelm, and your rapid emotional depletion. Without intentional self-care and boundary-setting, they can wear you down. The reality is simple: Do not be surprised when systemic inequities persist. These patterns are predictable and well-documented. The key to countering them is not constant outrage—it is preparedness and strategic action. How to Advocate Effectively: Stay Informed – Understand historical patterns, rhetoric, and methods. Knowledge is power. Anticipate Challenges – Recognizing common tactics allows you to be proactive rather than reactive. Protect Your Well-Being – Set firm boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain the stamina needed for long-term change. Focus on Impactful Actions – Channel your energy into initiatives that create measurable progress. Build and Support Community – Strengthen networks of advocacy and allyship to maintain resilience. Your passion is valuable, but sustained strategy is what leads to meaningful progress . Instead of letting external forces dictate your emotional state, take control of the movement on your own terms. The D&I Tip of the Day is courtesy of Aubrey Blanche-Sarellano.

In today’s digital world, misinformation spreads faster than ever, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) space is not immune. While you may have good intentions when sharing information online, it is crucial to be cautious about circulating unverified or misleading data. A recent narrative claims that it is acceptable to cancel DEIA because White women have been the primary beneficiaries. Let’s take a moment to think critically about this claim: Have White women benefited from diversity initiatives? Weren’t they supposed to benefit? Who else has benefited from DEIA interventions? What is the purpose of presenting this data now? Misinformation and Its Impact Two years ago, a statistic circulated online suggesting that over 70% of Chief Diversity Officers were White, while only about 4% of DEIA leaders were Black. However, this data was widely debunked by DEIA industry experts. Here’s why: The data lacked credibility – The source was unknown, unverified, and unreliable. There was no transparency regarding the methodology, sample size, or demographic breakdown. Ambiguous job titles – It was unclear whether the term “Chief Diversity Officer” was implicit or explicit in the dataset. Divisive propaganda – The statistic seemed to serve as a tool to create division in the DEIA industry along racial and ethnic lines. Repetition of misleading figures – Notice how the 4% statistic has resurfaced, attached to a different but similarly misleading claim. The Danger of Spreading Misinformation It is essential to scrutinize the sources of information before resharing. Even if a statistic comes from a seemingly reputable entity, such as the U.S. government, we must evaluate its accuracy and context. For example, consider these common misinformation trends: Claims that Supplier Diversity, Gender Diversity, and Disability Inclusion are not part of DEIA work. ( False – they are integral to DEIA.) Assertions that Civil Rights laws originated from DEIA efforts . ( False – DEIA work stems from Civil Rights legislation, not the other way around.) The Anti-DEIA Strategy: Sowing Confusion Bad actors have a vested interest in undermining DEIA efforts by fostering chaos and misinformation. Their strategy is to overwhelm us with conflicting narratives, making it difficult to discern fact from fiction. Let’s not contribute to this confusion by blindly sharing content that has not been verified. Moving Forward Thoughtfully As advocates for diversity, we must be intentional in how we engage with and share information online. Here are some best practices: Verify the source before posting any statistic or claim. Examine the intent behind the data – Is it meant to inform or to divide? Think critically about how your engagement can shape public perception of DEIA work. Uplift truth by sharing accurate, well-researched, and contextualized information. It’s okay to slow down and take the time to fact-check before engaging in discussions. Controlling the narrative means ensuring it is rooted in truth, not reactionary misinformation. Let’s be responsible stewards of DEIA work and protect its integrity by prioritizing accuracy and thoughtful discourse.

Navigating Uncertainty: IDC's Commitment to DEIA 

The world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work is often challenging, rewarding, and deeply personal. When external factors, like societal tensions or political climates such as those during the Trump administration, amplify the weight, it can feel overwhelming. The responsibility to drive meaningful change, combined with the broader issues facing the world, can make it seem like the weight of the world is on your back. Here’s how to keep pushing forward, even when the load feels too heavy: 1. Reconnect with Your "Why" Your "why" is your anchor. Why did you start this work? What impact are you striving to create? Reflect on your initial motivations and the lives you’ve already impacted. Celebrate small wins—each one contributes to a larger wave of change. 2. Create a Support Network DEI work is not meant to be done alone. Build relationships with like-minded professionals who understand the challenges. Engage with Communities of Practice or join forums where you can share ideas, vent frustrations, and find encouragement. Lean on trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends who can offer advice or a listening ear. 3. Set Boundaries to Avoid Burnout Your well-being is critical to sustaining the work. Learn to say no when your plate is too full. Carve out time for rest and recovery—schedule self-care as non-negotiable. Delegate tasks where possible and trust others to share the load. 4. Stay Informed, but Don’t Overload While it’s important to understand political and social developments, constant exposure to negativity can drain your energy. Schedule specific times to consume news, and then step away. Focus on credible sources and actionable insights rather than sensationalized narratives. 5. Focus on What You Can Control The enormity of systemic change can feel daunting, but change starts with small, actionable steps. Identify areas where you can make the most immediate impact. Develop tangible goals and celebrate milestones along the way. Remember, progress—even incremental—is still progress. 6. Ground Yourself in the Present When the weight feels unbearable, ground yourself in the here and now. Practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Take a walk, spend time in nature, or engage in a hobby you love. Remind yourself that challenges are temporary, but your work leaves a lasting legacy. 7. Lean Into Hope and Resilience DEI work is inherently about creating hope for a better future. Reflect on the resilience of marginalized communities who have fought for equity before you. Visualize the future you’re helping to create—a workplace and world where equity and inclusion thrive. 8. Keep Learning and Growing Challenges often present opportunities for growth. Take courses, attend workshops, or read books that reignite your passion and sharpen your skills. Collaborate with others to explore innovative strategies to overcome barriers. 9. Celebrate the Collective Impact You are not alone in this journey. Recognize the collective power of DEI advocates worldwide. Focus on the ripple effect—every step you take contributes to a larger movement for change. 10. Remind Yourself: You’re Human, Too You cannot pour from an empty cup. Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel tired, frustrated, or even defeated at times. Seek professional support, such as therapy or coaching, if the weight feels too heavy to bear alone. Conclusion The road to equity is neither straight nor easy. The weight you carry is a testament to your courage, passion, and commitment to justice. While the challenges of DEI work and the broader world can feel overwhelming, remember that your efforts matter. Take it one step at a time. Lean into your community. Focus on your impact. And most importantly, know that you are never alone in this fight. Together, we will continue to push forward and create a brighter, more inclusive future.

As businesses enter 2025, advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) remains crucial to fostering a thriving, innovative and supportive workplace. As a leader or executive, you must implement DEI resolutions that align with organizational values and drive real change. Here are several key ones to prioritize in the new year. 1. Prioritize DEI in Recruitment and Hiring One of the most impactful ways to drive organizational change is through recruitment and hiring practices. To build a more diverse workforce, you should ensure that your hiring process is free from bias. Research shows that organizations with more diverse workforces are 35% more likely to have financial returns above their competitors. However, inclusive recruitment is about more than meeting diversity quotas. It ensures that every candidate, regardless of background, has an equal opportunity to succeed. This starts with eliminating biases from job descriptions, interview processes and the hiring pipeline. It also includes broadening your recruitment efforts by sourcing candidates from various networks and educational institutions, ensuring a broader pool of diverse talent. Resolution: In 2025, commit to reviewing and updating your recruitment policies to eliminate bias. Tasks include revising job descriptions to avoid gendered language, ensuring diverse interview panels and leveraging technology to reduce human bias in candidate selection. Also, aim for measurable diversity goals in your hiring processes. 2. Support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) ERGs can be powerful tools for fostering inclusion and belonging in the workplace. These groups give employees from underrepresented backgrounds a voice and a platform to advocate for their needs. They can also be instrumental in shaping DEI policies, ensuring that initiatives are grounded in employees, real experiences. Resolution: Invest in and support your organization’s ERGs. You should provide adequate funding for these groups and provide access to leadership for mentorship and advocacy. Encourage ERGs to play an active role in shaping company policies, organizing events and offering professional development opportunities to their members. You can also offer a platform for ERGs to share their initiatives with the broader organization, promoting awareness and engagement. 3. Foster Inclusive Leadership Development Diversity at the entry level is important, but inclusion in leadership roles is equally vital. Diverse teams show 87% better decision-making results and produce more successful business outcomes. Diverse perspectives at the top of an organization lead to more innovative ideas, better team performance and greater employee engagement. Resolution: Create leadership development programs specifically designed to nurture diverse talent. You can include mentoring, equitable access to training and opportunities for underrepresented employees to take on high-profile projects. Building a pipeline of diverse leaders will sustain DEI efforts in the long term. This resolution is crucial for fostering long-term systemic change within your organization. 4. Measure and Hold Accountability for DEI Goals DEI progress is not always easy to measure, but it is critical for businesses to set clear, quantifiable goals. Without measurement, DEI efforts can lack direction and impact. Without precise data, it's difficult to gauge the effectiveness of your strategies and pinpoint areas that need improvement. Resolution: In 2025, establish clear DEI metrics to measure progress. These should include employee satisfaction surveys, retention rates for diverse employees and the representation of underrepresented groups at various organizational levels. Holding yourself and your team accountable will ensure that DEI initiatives are more than just a set of aspirations. Establishing regular reviews and transparent reporting of DEI progress will ensure that goals are met. 5. Promote Mental Health and Well-Being for All Employees More people now than ever are focused on mental wellbeing — in fact, more than a third of a third of Americans made Americans made New Year’s resolutions to improve their mental health. DEI efforts should extend to this aspect, as it is essential to fostering an inclusive work environment. Mental health positively affects job performance , and mental health support helps all employees — especially those from underrepresented groups — feel valued and understood. Resolution: Commit to enhancing your organization’s focus on mental health and well-being in 2025. You could offer mental health days, ensure employees have access to mental health resources and create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health challenges without fear of stigma. Promoting mental health initiatives supports DEI and increases retention and overall workplace satisfaction. 6. Commit to Ongoing DEI Education and Awareness As DEI initiatives evolve, so should the education provided to employees. DEI education should go beyond one-time training and become a continuous, company-wide priority. Ongoing DEI education helps employees understand the nuances of diversity, fosters an inclusive culture and encourages behaviors that reflect company values. Resolution: In the new year, commit to providing regular DEI training and resources for all employees. Cover topics like unconscious bias, cultural competence and inclusive leadership. Additionally, create space for open dialogue about DEI within the organization, encouraging employees to share their experiences and learn from each other. Interactive workshops and real-life case studies can reinforce the importance of inclusivity and equip employees with the tools to implement DEI in their day-to-day work. A Year of Meaningful DEI Action In 2025, business leaders must take deliberate and strategic actions to advance DEI within their organizations. By committing to inclusive recruitment practices, leadership development, continuous education, measuring progress and supporting employee well-being, businesses can create a more equitable and inclusive workplace. The new year offers an opportunity to set meaningful DEI resolutions that can lead to long-lasting change. It’s time to take action — your employees, customers and business will thank you for it.

Today, we pause to reflect on the life, vision, and enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a champion of equality, civil rights, and justice. His unwavering commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and creating a society rooted in inclusion and compassion inspires the work we do every day at the Institute for Diversity Certification (IDC)®. Dr. King once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” These powerful words remind us that the pursuit of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is not just a professional calling—it is a moral imperative that extends to every corner of our lives. MLK’s Impact on DEIA Dr. King’s leadership in the civil rights movement laid the groundwork for many of the principles that guide modern DEIA efforts. His vision of a world where people are judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin resonates deeply with our mission to foster equitable workplaces and inclusive communities. As DEIA professionals, we stand on the shoulders of this transformative leader, continuing his work by advocating for marginalized voices, dismantling systemic inequities, and creating spaces where everyone belongs. How We Can Honor His Legacy Honoring Dr. King’s legacy goes beyond remembrance; it requires action. Here are a few ways we can continue his work in our DEIA practices: Educate and Reflect Take time to learn about the systemic barriers Dr. King fought to overcome. Reflect on how these barriers persist today and what role you can play in challenging them. Advocate for Equity Identify inequities within your organization or community and lead efforts to address them. Speak up when you see exclusionary practices and champion policies that promote fairness and accessibility. Foster Meaningful Dialogue Create opportunities for open and honest conversations about race, equity, and inclusion. Encourage diverse perspectives and actively listen to understand and learn from others. Commit to Service Dr. King emphasized the importance of serving others. Volunteer, mentor, or support initiatives that uplift underrepresented communities. Moving Forward Together At IDC, we are committed to advancing Dr. King’s vision by empowering DEIA professionals with the tools, knowledge, and resources to drive meaningful change. Let us remember that this work is not just about compliance or checking boxes—it is about creating a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. On this MLK Day, let’s recommit ourselves to the ideals of equity, inclusion, and justice. Together, we can transform Dr. King’s dream into a lasting reality. How are you honoring Dr. King’s legacy in your work and community? Share your thoughts and initiatives in the comments below. Let’s inspire one another to lead with purpose and passion.