JULY/AUGUST 2024 ISSUE PREVIEW
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
The objectives and challenges of diversity, equity, & inclusion
by Keith Washington
While the topic of DEI has attracted a significant amount of attention lately, this is not a new ideal. In retrospect, the same desired outcome was at the heart of the Civil Rights Movement during which the previously mentioned quote was made. This is especially significant in the workplace, as this is a key venue where families are built, and generational wealth is produced. Leaders in the past have recognized the critical importance of having a fair, even playing field where one’s livelihood is earned. The unfortunate reality is that this is where racial discrimination continues to run rampant, further depriving millions of the opportunity to fully “capitalize” (in a capitalistic society) on their God-given talents and abilities, and intelligence. While countless individuals and organizations of goodwill recognize the value of what DEI efforts attempt to deliver, by way of creating a fairer and more equitable environment, the fight is far from over. Unfortunately, those in positions of authority have waged a war against such efforts. They have chosen to focus on challenging the ideals of DEI rather than working to refine its approach.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
The ripple effect: How removing one word is changing workplace culture
by Marlowe Weingart
What DEI attempts to do is allow everyone to compete on equal footing, regardless of their background. It acknowledges that certain groups have faced systemic barriers, and seeks to address these historical imbalances. This principle applies not only to racial equity but also to gender equality and other forms of discrimination.
Historical biases have long affected perceptions of capability based on gender or race. A fascinating example comes from archaeology, where a Viking warrior’s grave, filled with weapons and ceremonial items, was long assumed to be male. Recent DNA analysis revealed the warrior was female, challenging our preconceptions about gender roles, even in ancient societies.
Equity and perceived worth are closely intertwined in our society. The removal of “equity” from DEI initiatives reflects a belief that worth must be proven, regardless of historical disadvantages. This mindset fails to acknowledge that not everyone starts from the same position in life.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
The potential impact of losing ground on DEI initiatives
by Whitley English
In recent years, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have gained significant traction in workplaces worldwide. These efforts, aimed at fostering fair and inclusive environments, have been heralded as essential steps toward creating diverse and thriving organizations. However, despite progress, there are looming threats that, if realized, could roll back the gains made in DEI, and have far-reaching consequences for workplaces and society at large.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
Going from bland to a mosaic of talent: How DEI can improve more than just your demographics
by Laura Wagonknecht
Let me tell you about this one tech company I consulted for. A bunch of dudes, all from the same Ivy League school, with the same golf clubs — the whole shebang. They were struggling to come up with new product ideas. We brought in some women and folks from different backgrounds and boom! Suddenly, they’re developing apps for new markets, products that nobody else thought of. Their value shot up faster than my blood pressure after a Trump tweet.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
Where are the Black physicians?
by Dr. Bridget Cole Williams
The presence of Black physicians is not only essential for addressing healthcare disparities, but also for inspiring future generations. When Black patients see healthcare providers who share their racial and cultural backgrounds, they are more likely to trust and engage with the healthcare system. Moreover, diversity among physicians enriches medical practice by bringing a variety of perspectives and experiences to the table. Welcoming diversity of thought is invaluable for innovation and problem-solving in healthcare. Distrust of the medical community is a perpetual issue. Stories of the Tuskegee Experiment, the unethical use of Henrietta Lacks’ cells, and the Contraceptive trials in Puerto Rico have been passed down through generations, and led to fear, doubt, and distrust of the American medical community.
BUSINESS & CAREER
The secret weapon of small business success
by John Lawson
A strong brand identity is about more than just visual appeal—it’s about building trust and loyalty with your customers.
BUSINESS & CAREER
Internationally friendly networking
by Chi Chi Okezie
As we continue to navigate post pandemic and into our proclaimed new normal, networking continues to evolve. The use of technology, generative AI, and other tools make our reach even broader and wider. It is only right that our networks become internationally friendly. Studies have shown the positive and enormous impact of diverse networks.
BUSINESS & CAREER
7 select skills to be an effective communicator at work
by Emily Walton
Studies show that strong cultures of effective communication positively impact productivity and employee confidence. Additionally, effective communication creates clearer understanding, less room for misinterpretation, and can therefore reduce conflicts.
BUSINESS & CAREER
The practice of presence in overcoming conflict
by Jennifer Germaine
When you continue to view conversations as a problem, the stories that your mind makes up, the emotions that surface, and the contractions in your body, cause you pain. You spend your time and effort being trapped in the ruminations of what could be or what you did — bouncing yourself between the past and the future, and you create your own internal insanity. This internal insanity creates suffering and pain inside of you. To get out of this pain, people convince themselves that their pain is caused by the external world, and they will take this discomfort and pain of their own mental constructs and use it to take out others…
MONEY & FINANCE
8 signs you have a healthy relationship with money
by Tamara Lee
How do you know you’re on the path to creating financial freedom while also enjoying a healthy relationship with money? In my experience, there are eight signs you’ll start to notice as you develop a healthier relationship with money.
HOME & FAMILY
Honoring a life well-lived with tradition and heritage
by Tina Holmes
As Americans, we should remember that we are a tapestry of traditions and should ensure that what brings us comfort is included in our end-of-life planning.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Research is essential when choosing skincare products
by Sabrina Cortes
Most well-known brands list water as the first ingredient, which dilutes the solution. To my dismay, I also discovered that many formulas have harmful ingredients that cause hormone imbalance, cancer, and other serious health problems.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
The lesser-known side of diabetes
by Rashim Gupta, MD
What do you think of when you hear “diabetes?” Having to check blood sugars? Taking insulin shots? Maybe needing surgeries? Going to lots of doctor’s visits? Having to limit certain foods? Perhaps all of the above. Diabetes and diabetes care are definitely complicated. There are even other aspects that most people do not think of — the mental and emotional side of diabetes.
Feature Spotlights
BUSINESS
BLACK BEAR LOCK & SECURITY
Bobby Richardson, owner
Sylva, NC
"I used to think that success was a dollar number and it’s no longer that. I had to redefine what success looks like for me.”
sponsored by
ENTREPRENEUR
BRANDY MILLS
Brandy Mills Consulting
Arden, NC
“When I’m doing this work with my clients or companies, I am in it with them; truly believing in their ability to tackle each goal, and working through the setbacks and disappointments. I take their journeys personal.”
BUSINESS
Cute as a Cupcake! Cupcakery & Bake Shop
Michelle Wainwright
Founder & Owner
Merrillville, IN
"Rooted in the belief that 'a life without cupcakes is a life without love,' the company places a strong emphasis on creating an inclusive environment. Certified as a Minority/Women-owned Business Enterprise, Cute as a Cupcake extends its impact through Cutie Cares, a nonprofit division addressing food insecurities and promoting community wellness. Committed to using quality ingredients, providing attentive service, and driven by a mission to spread love through cupcakes, Cute as a Cupcake is redefining the art of sweet experiences with a rich blend of tradition and innovation.
ENTREPRENEUR
CHRISTINA COLLINS
NeverStopMoving365
Mount Kisco, NY
“I do not acknowledge, or even blink, when I am the only woman in a room. I choose not to see my biological sex as a label, and most definitely, not at a limiting factor.”
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION
VERNER CENTER FOR EARLY LEARNING
Asheville, NC
Verner Center for Early Learning is a premier non-profit that provides high-quality child care and education to families with the highest burdens and least amount of resources. Our day-to-day operations focus on those ages from birth to five years old, serving nearly 300 kids annually across two campuses. We are the ONLY Early Head Start (EHS) program in Buncombe County.
ENTREPRENEUR
TINA TURSI HOLMES
Peaceful Decisions
Founder & Owner
Asheville, NC
"What I have always loved about what I do — as the owner of Peaceful Decisions, a funeral director, patient advocate, and educator — is to see the calm in those I serve."
ENTREPRENEUR
ADORA WINQUIST
The Soul Institute
Asheville, NC
"...my great passion is creating sacred spaces for ceremony and healing. I love teaching others to find the sacred connection within and then to listen. Every individual is encoded with a unique purpose and gifts. I remind them how to hear the voice of wisdom and truth from within, and to connect to that inner well of love that never runs dry."
