The conversation about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is an important part of what Urban League of Northwest Indiana represents. On Thursday, March 6, students and adults throughout the Region gathered at Valparaiso University's Harre Union ballroom to discuss significant DEI topics in a safe environment.
Dr. Danny Lackey, Ed.D., of DL Consulting Services and former executive director of student support services for Merrillville Schools, understands the significance of an event like this to differentiate between what does and doesn't classify as DEI. As a member of this year's DEI Symposium Committee, he's emphatic about pointing out misconceptions that can disturb this conversation.
"DEI has been responsible for making sure there's a level playing field so that everybody can have access to opportunities based on their merit," Lackey said. "It's not about using merit as the barometer for determining if a person gets a job, but ensuring that each person can be present and considered for a position with their merit."
Conversations about DEI can be both difficult and scary for those who are new to the discussion. Many people are fearful of not being fully understood and the potential backlash that comes with it. Lackey admires this space as a way to invite students and adults to a discussion forum that's safe and free of judgment.
"We know that these topics can be controversial at times," Lackey said. "The first thing we want to do is make sure everybody understands that they are valued. They have importance and every perspective matters. We also want to arm people with the facts due to the overwhelming amount of misinformation that gets out there about DEI."
Michael 'Mike' Berta, former superintendent of K-12 public education in our region, was another panelist for this year's DEI Symposium Committee. He believes this event helps attendees become more comfortable and confident to respond to arguments against DEI as well as more knowledgeable about related topics such as bias.
"This is a day designed to provide education and information," Berta said. "Some people have a difficult time responding to misinformed or questionable claims. We want people to feel confident and empowered to speak about what's right. We're hopeful that in this setting, being surrounded and encouraged by their peers, people can have a better understanding and motivation to provide their voice in these conversations."
Students and adults were randomly paired up into groups for an initial conversation about addressing and resolving arguments against DEI initiatives. After 15 minutes of discussion, each table sent multiple members up to the front of the ballroom to share their takeaways, including recommended actions, with the rest of the groups.
It's human nature that not everyone is going to see eye-to-eye with one another. While these are conversations that need to take place, it's also important how we handle them.
"Civility is one of the most important parts of this discussion," Berta said. "I think there's such an absence of civil discourse now more than ever before. It's either you're with me or against me. People need to have these discussions, but have them in a civil manner."
Following the initial conversation, the event organized breakout rooms for the students and adults to continue the discussion. Both groups were provided with a lunch break at the conclusion of their breakout room activities.
Being an outlet that promotes, encourages and enhances the conditions of people is what the Urban League of Northwest Indiana prioritizes in their services. The organization has always strived to make improvements in the social, educational, and economic landscape for everyone they encounter.
"Urban League was organized in 1910 by a black man, George Edmund Haynes, and a white woman, Ruth Standish Baldwin," said Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud, Ed.D., president and CEO of Urban League of Northwest Indiana. "Diversity and inclusion began with our organization. I don't think everybody knows what DEI truly is. It includes your disabled neighbor who only works four hours a day. It includes the Down Syndrome person working in the store. It includes a student who needs extra accommodations to get through elementary, middle, and high school. It's not about ethnicity, but rather an equal opportunity to work without being discriminated against."
Multiple vendors had tables set up outside the ballroom entrance. This includes Simplee Cheesecakes, IronWorkz and Kauffman Chiropractic. Additional tables provided DEI-themed shirts and opportunities/services with Urban League of Northwest Indiana.
For more information on Urban League of Northwest Indiana, you can visit its website.
