White supremacy creates a world where Black feelings and particularly Black pain, are erased and ignored. — As an Equity Consultant, I consistently speak with historically underrepresented employees who are navigating complex issues of bias and discrimination in the workplace. Without fail, many employees express fear that in raising a grievance at work they will be construed as “the problem.” Black women, in particular, highlight that their…

Let’s celebrate Women’s History Month with recognition and pay equity — Last week, I partnered with a large tech organization in order to deliver a webinar called “Creating Workplaces Where Women Can Thrive.” In preparation for this webinar I came across some startling statistics regarding women’s experiences in the workforce: 💡 Woman-identified employees are 2X more likely than male-identified employees to…

During times of tragedy, organizations can provide solace and comfort to employees who are in pain. — January and February have been difficult months for so many of us. In the past few weeks, there have been two mass shootings in California (Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay). These tragic events egregiously targeted the Asian American Pacific Islander community. Additionally, we collectively witnessed the murder of Tyre…

In America, the sidewalk has a deep history of racism and exclusion. — “Why did you move?” my friend asked, as we sat down for brunch. “Huh?” I half-replied, already preoccupied by the extensive mimosa menu. “You moved for those white people on the sidewalk, you don’t have to do that, they can go around you.” “I didn’t want to cause a problem,”…

Recently, an institution of higher learning invited me to give their LGBTQ+ commencement address, below is my speech. — In our society, we do our best to squirm out of the discomfort of transitional moments. We want to move quickly out of the feeling of not knowing what’s next. I suppose that’s because we have, in some ways, demonized the unknown. When students are in school we pressure you…

For years, I have anxiously tried to control my life and it’s outcomes. But what if there is a gentler way of being? What if we can trust life to meet with us with kindness and joy? — Every summer, I nurture a garden in my mother’s backyard. What began as a hobby is now an integral part of my life. In many ways my garden is the center of my spiritual world. …

I am deeply saddened and dismayed by Harvard Divinity School’s refusal to grant Cornel West tenure. — Below is a brief reflection about my time as Dr. West’s student. His unparalleled ability to make students believe in the magic of their imagination will be dearly missed. “I don’t think I agree with your assertion,” I said, my voice shaking with fear and trepidation. The lecture hall grew quiet and I locked eyes with a friend who gave me a concerned glance in return.

And it is Doing it on Purpose — This story was originally published in The Boycott Times. You can find the article here If You Don’t Have Sick Time; You Don’t Have Sick Time.” At the onset of the pandemic, these words reverberated throughout our staff meeting. My colleagues and I shifted uncomfortably. The room exchanged uneasy glances…

It’s time to stop crying when Black people ask you to be better. — I know the sting of microaggressions, macroaggressions, and overt racism. I know the pain of going home after a long day of class or work with heavy shoulders, shoulders burdened by the pain of interpersonal racism. Not only are experiences of racism hurtful and fatiguing, but advocating for oneself is…