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Hello Maria,

National observances like Black History month exist because we have all lived through different experiences; it is important to learn about races, cultures, and experiences other than our own so that we can strengthen our communities and build bridges with those different from ourselves. Now is the time to open our eyes to this ever-changing world. These cultural history months give us the opportunity to recognize and celebrate marginalized groups that have contributed and sacrificed significantly to our country’s history. It has never been more imperative to initiate awareness and appreciation of diversity and incorporate it into our lives, even year-round, because the populations nonprofits serve are extremely diverse, and we’d be foolish to ignore that. We have provided thought-provoking articles such as, How to Avoid Tokenism in the Workplace, as well as our Watch of the month, Color Blind or Color Brave, that may help present new perspectives.

Additionally, if you are interested in any of our past IDEA trainings, like Power Dynamics & Privilege, From Anti to Ally, and Shine Like An Apple! How To Leave A Positive Impact in Your Community, Organization, or Workplace, they are all recorded and accessible in our webinar archive, specifically under the DE&I section.

We hope that you enjoy the resources for this month, and if you have a resource that you think would be worthwhile to share, tell us about it!

Black History Month:

What Is It and Why Do We Need It?

February is Black History Month. This month-long observance in the US and Canada is a chance to celebrate Black achievement and provide a fresh reminder to take stock of where systemic racism persists and give visibility to the people and organizations creating change.

Here's what to know about Black History Month and how to celebrate it this year:

How to Avoid Tokenism in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Work

Tokenism is "the practice of doing something (such as hiring an individual who belongs to a minority group) only to prevent criticism and give the appearance that people are being treated fairly."

So, how do you avoid tokenism in your company culture? What steps can you take, as a leader, to make sure your efforts to increase diversity and inclusion don't become mere gestures?

What We're Learning

Girlboss is a community of strong, curious, and ambitious women redefining success on our own terms. They are here to inform, entertain, and inspire action through the content and experiences they create.

"I recommend Girlboss because they inspire and help women achieve Boss jobs through resume suggestions, an annual conference, a podcast, and a newsletter...(each with tips on how to be excellent in your career and move up if desired)." - Angelica

Upcoming Trainings

* February 16: Employers: Acquiring The Best Talent

* February 22: Equity & Inclusion Circle (MEMBER EXCLUSIVE)

* February 24: Planning for Success

* March 8: Lead with Your Heart

* March 9: Integrating Accessibility Into Your Organization - Getting Started

See all of our upcoming IDEA trainings here.

*Free for Alliance Members

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Read

How To Be An Inclusive Leader is one of the best-selling diversity in leadership books. Jennifer Brown lays out the manager responsibilities for creating cultures where every employee feels welcomed and empowered. The book offers a comprehensive step-by-step guide to acknowledging privilege and preconceptions, advocating for employees, and amplifying lesser heard voices.

Watch

The subject of race can be very touchy. As finance executive Mellody Hobson says, it's a "conversational third rail." But, she says, that's exactly why we need to start talking about it. In this engaging, persuasive talk, Hobson makes the case that speaking openly about race — and particularly about diversity in hiring — makes for better businesses and a better society.

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Listen

The Nod tells the stories of Black life that don't get told anywhere else, from an explanation of how purple drink became associated with Black culture to the story of how an interracial drag troupe traveled the nation in the 1940s. We celebrate the genius, the innovation, and the resilience that is so particular to being Black in America, and around the world.