Being in Community in Difficult Times

Many of us may embrace intersectionality in theory, but in practice we struggle to embody this vision. To my colleagues who have been reaching out to the "other side" to connect across difference, please know that I'm deeply inspired by and grateful for your efforts.

And yet, there's still so much rancor on this platform that I sometimes can't bear to read the comments. I've never seen hostile, online arguments and name calling yield productive results on Palestine-Israel, or any other topic for that matter. Have you?

A friendly reminder about trauma/information dumping... if you're dumping unprocessed trauma or information onto colleagues or strangers online, you may be overwhelming or triggering them without realizing it.

Dumping may make you feel good or relieved for a moment, but it shuts down authentic connection and dialogue. It's likely to drive the dumpee (and possibly others) farther away from the position/perspective you want so much to advance.

“Am I using my anger, or is my anger using me?” I love this question from Layla Saad. During difficult times, we must reconsider our ways of being in relationship and community with one another while allowing each other to feel the terror, rage, and injustice of the moment.

At its core, my work is about fostering a sense of unity that promotes inclusion while also recognizing and valuing our differences. Organizations need to cultivate this deeper sense of inclusion and connection more than ever — the transformative power of holding space for others so that they may truly feel seen, respected, and welcomed.

Are you in? If so, I'd love to partner with you. DM me!

#deib #difficultdialogues #peace #justice #inclusion #sharedhumanity #trauma #diversity #difference #connection

Image source: https://www.fielding.edu/how-to-stop-trauma-dumping-and-protect-your-mental-health/