In our upcoming book Change the Narrative, my co-author Kathy Lopes and I describe that the work of an antiracist leader should follow the cycle of inquiry–Learn, Reflect, Act, Assess. This cycle forces our actions to be intentional and assess the impact to ensure that we are doing no harm. Reflection can be the
In this month’s edition of Changing the Narrative, Kathy and I answer the question–“Do you need a DEI?” As organizations create the position of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, are these organizations seeking ways to make the role sustainable? Burnout is high among DEI’s as they are often viewed as the sole person responsible for addressing
So you are making headway hiring a diverse workforce. Well your work is not over. In this episode of “Changing the Narrative”, Kathy and I talk about retention. It’s one thing to bring people of color on board in an organization that is majority white, the but work doesn’t stop there. In this episode we
Here is my graduation speech for the Class of 2021. A message for all of us as we come out of this portal. Last night was our graduation, so I figured I’d share my commencement message with you. The challenges I gave our student are appropriate for any leader committed to social justice. This school
I wrote this letter to our school community 1 year ago in response to the George Floyd murder. I still remember the conversation with our daughter about what happened. Now we ask ourselves questions such as– Is this a historic moment? Will the world remember George Floyd? Will things change? A year later, many of
Time Flies! I can’t believe I am completing my 5th year as principal at Newton North. So much has happened in these 5 exciting years. A number of people that I mentor are getting new jobs! Therefore, I wanted to reshare some posts that I wrote five years ago about Exit. While I was thrilled
In the wake of the Chauvin case, the killing of Daunte Wright and the inhumane treatment of 2nd Lt. Caron Nazario has created more heartbreak, fear, and anger for black people. Make no mistake we are in a crisis and it’s impacting your organization. In speaking with students, colleagues and friends, it is clear that
As the Chauvin case gets underway, get ahead of the decision and support Black people around you and make sure their needs are front and center. Too often, we wait for the verdict to realize we need to support a community. No matter how the jury decides, this trial brings up painful memories for Black
In this short video, Kathy Lopes and I focus on how to speak with staff and colleagues about race. Summary You should make race and racism common topics to normalize this work. I mention the Jay Smooth video that compares talking about race to dental hygiene- “a practice that we carry out by engaging with our imperfections.” Frame
Our first episode of this project focuses on developing Antiracist Student Leaders. We talk about the ways we can engage with students so that they develop skills, such as 1. Talking about race 2. Identifying racism 3. Becoming Upstanders who address racist incidents
