Data is powerful. It shows us patterns, reveals gaps in our understanding, and clarifies steps we need to take to solve problems. Except when it doesn’t. The fact is, there are serious limits to quantitative…
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What do you think of when you hear “DEI training?” Memories of mandated, awkward exercises with your co-workers? Or perhaps fear (of saying the wrong thing, hurting others, or being hurt yourself). Sadly, you’re not…
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As another Black History Month draws to a close, it’s worth reflecting on the purpose of this annual celebration.  Yes, the commemoration of Black pioneers like Frederick Douglass or Maya Angelou is important. But it’s…
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When I founded UPD in 2005, the mission was simple: help build better, higher performing, and more resilient organizations.  From the beginning, Antiracism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) has been crucial in this mission, not…
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Appeasement never works: it’s an old lesson from the history books, and it rings just as true in today’s culture wars.  Look no further than last month, when Scholastic, the publishing and distribution company known…
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This recent study shows some pretty dramatic benefits to the overall economy in pursuing an equity agenda—to the tune of nearly $26 trillion over the 30 years analyzed! We should all know by now that…
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It’s undeniable that since the murder of George Floyd, America has seen an uptick in governmental introspection aimed at improving inequitable outcomes for Black/Indigenous/People of Color (BIPOC) and other historically disadvantaged stakeholders. For the state…
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The past few years have ushered in a new wave of organizational introspection related to antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI). It’s long overdue, and I’m glad to see it, but the prospect of achieving...
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Many who know me know that, despite my rational self, I have been unable to break the codependent habits formed over a lifetime as a professional football fan.   I love the game in spite…
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My grandfather was a civil rights leader in San Antonio, TX. He was instrumental in desegregating lunch counters and movie theaters in 1965. He was motivated by a simple but noble goal for Black girls…
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