Key Insights #2: The Importance of Inclusion
I have been working with a diversity based co-facilitation/co-mentoring, and co-learning group for a while (www.NorthStarFacilitators.com) and something I’ve learned is that one of the challenges of working with diverse groups is being sure that the under represented people in the room (a.k.a. minority) get a chance to participate fully. To add their value to the conversation.
I witnessed this during my facilitation this evening. A group of 19 women, all highly motivated and successful, met to discuss, create, and clarify their organizational focus goals for 2012. One of these women, a woman of color, conversed in the small groups and did not share the whole evening in the large group. When I finally noted, without calling attention to it, and asked her to respond she shifted behavior. Once I invited her into the large group conversation she began to speak up more, and was encouraged by others. No giant breakthrough. No earth shattering healing of a racist schism. Just a small pulling back of the vale of unconscious oppression that led to someone sharing more of their wisdom with the group…who valued it, but did not consciously suppress it.
A lesson in the importance of inclusion. To hear all voices is truly empowering.
