Today is one of those days where my consciousness is bothering me concerning my surroundings.
Maybe you, too, have witnessed that type of uneasiness.
You and I know that many things continue to fly somewhat under the radar in terms of equity.
Precedence was set on education on August 16, 2021, knowing that Critical Race Theory is banned in Alabama Classrooms.
“Ivey claimed that CRT currently isn’t being taught in Alabama classrooms, but voted in favor of a State Board of Education ban it.”
Alabama state school board passes resolution banning Critical Race Theory (alreporter.com)
As an advocate for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B), I was disappointed when I heard the news this week.
I’m disappointed with Alabama Governor Kay Ivey because she signed SB129, known as the “divisive concepts” bill, into law Wednesday. The law will become effective October 1, 2024.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signs DEI bill into law: What the ‘divisive concepts’ ban will do (msn.com)
Now we have another precedent set; this time, a new Alabama law banning diversity, equity, and inclusion offices, programming, and training in public colleges and other state agencies will go into effect this fall.
Alabama colleges, students weigh options after Gov. Kay Ivey signs DEI bill into law (msn.com)
An interesting fact is that Alabama is not alone. “In Florida, one institution fired all its DEI staff, while another simply changed their titles.
Alabama governor signs bill barring diversity, equity and inclusion programs | AP News
There also seems to be a “bandwagon effect” all around us.
The Bandwagon Effect: Definition, Examples, and Effects (verywellmind.com)
My conscious mind tells me there is something wrong with society.
As one who has earned the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate offered by the University of South Florida Muma College of Business, I’m questioning the society that we live in.
The phrase “We’ve come a long way, and yet there is still a lot of discrimination” spoken by the legendary and great Aretha Franklin rings in my ears louder today than when it was quoted before she died.
The words of Dorothy Norwood’s song “We’ve Come A Long Way” reminds me that we still have uphill journeys regardless of the rough side of the mountain.
Therefore, my mind refuses to rest knowing we live in troubling times based on what has just happened.
I believe that our youth are our future.
Our youth sometimes get an opportunity to see this world through good examples of character and moral ethics as they witness the power of those their parents elect into public office.
Young people hold the key to creating a better future | World Economic Forum (weforum.org)
Fortunately, my future doesn’t depend on what was recently signed by Alabama Governor, Kay Ivey on Wednesday by her signing SB129.
I firmly believe the future of our youth does, however, effective October 1, 2024.
As I thought about the woman who signed her signature, I also thought about those who were either about to graduate from high school or college and were going into the workforce.
I can only pray that those elected to office are provided proper guidance and counsel with accurate advice when it relates to the welfare of our nation.
I’m also aware that the livelihood of many people in the DEI profession is in balance as DEI offices are closing.
This was one that I didn’t see coming, and it was just when I thought we were making progress.
I know who I am and will not allow others to define me.
“There is a huge amount of freedom that comes to you when you take nothing personally.” ~Don Miguel Ruiz
But what about those who have no voice?
Today, although our country has taken significant steps forward, this disappointment will pass.
I’m confident time heals, and as a person of faith, I’ve placed it in God’s hands; knowing that the end is already known before the beginning of time.
This quote by Tennessee Williams says it all for me.
“Being disappointed is one thing, and being discouraged is something else. I am disappointed, but I am not discouraged.”
~ Tennessee Williams
There has to be hope the younger generation are loosing hope in government. We must have faith and continueto stand for diversity, equality and inclusion.
Cynthia,
Greetings and I appreciate your feedback. The word Faith and Hope for our younger generation rings loud in my ears! If we don’t stand up for diversity, equality and inclusion who will?
McKinley
This can be disheartening as it sends a message these principles aren’t important.
Now is the time for our actions to speak louder than ever. How we treat people, how we raise our voices for the marginalized and how we stand firm in our beliefs that injustice needs to be called out and worked against.
Jane,
Thank you for your insights and I like the word “disheartening.” In my humble opinion the message is clear, yet too many times I’ve seen how the other voices are not important. We live in a society where it’s easy to treat people less than others and marginalize them in the process. It’s one of those things that happens openly, and this is why we need all to vote to counter act some of this injustice.
McKinley
McKinley, growing up in the South during post Civil Rights I still witnessed a lot of discrimination. Still I managed to make my own path in life. I strongly believe that the youth are always resilient and will change the status quo to meet their own needs. I think they will overcome this current adversity.
Scott,
I like your perspective and insight that “our youth are always resilient and will change the status quo to meet their own needs.” I believe that for me and you those that never experienced growing up in the South during post-Civil Rights will not fully appreciate how far we have come and where we are going. We need people like yourself to help tell the story and help show them the proper path to follow. I too believe they will overcome this current adversity; however, they need our help in doing so. The challenge here in Alabama, you can’t talk to students about Critical Race Theory without the possibility of being fired and now they have tied it to the new bill SB129, known as the “divisive concepts” bill, at goes into effective October 1, 2024. Those that are teachers have their backs against the wall.
McKinley
Good evening CM, I can resonate with your thoughts on this matter and have been bothered more often than not in the past 5-10 years with the optics and issues within our society. We are still suffering in a lot of ways, and I too have been extremely disappointed as it seems that we have been “revisiting” a lot Civil Rights issues. This issues (lack of diversity and inclusion, voter suppression, removing certain educational criteria, etc.,) immediately get my attention having being raised by my grandmother who came up during the Civil Rights era. All in all, I feel it is imperative that I stay in prayer but also lead by example while making myself available to all.
Terrance,
Good evening as well! Thank you for taking the time to comment today. As Soldiers of the same profession and men of faith you already understand why this bothers me. Our society puts on rose-colored glasses when it’s good for them. Many don’t understand what happened 60 years ago or even 5-10 years ago because it doesn’t benefit or affect them. As we prepare for elections maybe this will be a signal for more people to vote for the rights to have diversity, equity and inclusion, as voter suppression is still happening. You’re right it is imperative that I stay in prayer but also lead by example while making ourselves available to all.
CM
As we strive for fairness and inclusivity, grounding ourselves in Scripture becomes crucial. DEI principles hold deep theological significance, prompting us to delve into their biblical foundations.
Achieving this balance entails honoring the inherent worth and dignity of every individual while staying anchored in biblical truths and values.
Revelation 7:9-10 paints a vivid picture of heaven, where people from all walks of life gather to worship together. This depiction underscores that diversity isn’t just accepted but celebrated in God’s eternal realm, mirroring His desire for an inclusive community of believers.
Is this conversation helpful so far?
My Father always shared. It’s ok to be concerned, but don’t get consumed!
James,
Greetings,
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts. These are great words of wisdom. “Preach” I truly respect everything you wrote as you tied it to the Bible. Powerful Words “Achieving this balance entails honoring the inherent worth and dignity of every individual while staying anchored in biblical truths and values.”
CM
These are certainly troubling times, Big Brother. Great message!
Lisa,
Your words humble me. “These are certainly troubling times.” I’m reminded of Matthew 16:23 when Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”
McKinley
The Republican party and its extremists are trying to take us back. We must educate people and get people to vote up and down the ballot. They are trying to brainwash society. These people are no good.
Don,
I admire your passion. Without a doubt we must educate people and get people to vote up and down the ballot.
CM