NSGConnect

NSGConnect Spark!

This monthly email is sent to NSGConnect members to inspire self-reflection and discussions with colleagues relating to professional development topics including leadership, self-care, research, and many more. As a member of NSGConnect, add your thoughts to the NSGConnect Discussion Forum and visit the NSGConnect community page to find out other ways you can engage with the program!  You can also utilize the NSGConnect Library for additional resources.  Tell us what you think and send us feedback and comments to project leader, Shannon Wieloch at s7m6w@yahoo.com .  

Many Faces of Diversity: Recognizing and Promoting Diversity in all Forms

"Our diversity is our strength. What a dull and pointless life it would be if everyone was the same." –Angelina Jolie

TEDtalk Spotlight 

Rocio Lorenzo "How diversity makes teams more innovative"

https://www.ted.com/talks/rocio_lorenzo_want_a_more_innovative_company_hire_more_women?language=en

In this TEDtalk, Rocio Lorenzo talks about how increased diversity in companies is correlated with innovation. Her research involves diversity in many respects, including education, gender, ethnicity, and other aspects which contribute to a more diverse workforce.

Self Reflection/Discussion

• Although we often emphasize religion, gender, and ethnicity, diversity comes in many forms. Brainstorm what types of diversity exist and how these may manifest.

• All of us have a unique perspective, whether we realize it or not. Take a moment to reflect on your experiences. What unique perspective do you provide?

• How diverse is your workplace? Do you notice any gaps in particular areas? In what ways do you think this may impact your team's work?

4 Ways to Start Promoting Diversity

1. Consider your own experiences and biases, and work to limit how these affect your behavior in the workplace.

2. Read more about different cultures and types of diversity.

3. Attend training on how to be culturally sensitive and inclusive.

4. Be aware of holidays in different cultures. If you know of any colleagues who openly celebrate these holidays, consider this when wishing them happy holidays or when decorating the office.

This list was partially inspired by: https://www.ceridian.com/blog/six-ways-to-support-diversity-and-inclusion-in-the-workplace

Additional Resources

Podcast:

This article lists several podcasts, each of which highlights a different diversity group.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/pragyaagarwaleurope/2019/08/27/top-five-podcasts-to-encourage-diversity-and-inclusivity/#29e7d09b791d

Books:

UGH!?! Not Another Diversity Book by Justin LaKyle Brown

The Diversity Training Activity Book: 50 Activities for Promoting Communication and Understanding at Work by Jonamay Lambert and Selma Myers

 
Thank you to Rebecca LeShay for this month's Spark!  Rebecca is a genetic counselor with experience in prenatal and cancer counseling. She is a faculty member for the University of California at Irvine genetic counseling training program.