Blog Post 2: Overcoming Challenges and Building Inclusive Behaviors

Introduction: Continuing our exploration of The Waymakers, we delve into the practical aspects of implementing equity strategies and the common pitfalls to avoid. This post highlights actionable steps for managers and leaders at community colleges.

Key Challenges and Strategies: Frank outlines several common challenges managers face when fostering inclusion and provides strategies to overcome them.

Key Quotes and Insights:

1. “Whenever there is toxic leadership anywhere in an organization, those on the margins are harmed most acutely.”
   • Takeaway: Toxic leadership disproportionately affects marginalized groups. Addressing harmful behaviors at all levels is critical.
2. “Racism is alive and well. We are not in a post-racial era. We are, sadly, still embroiled in racism and all its manifestations.”
   • Takeaway: Acknowledging the ongoing presence of racism is the first step toward addressing it. Leaders must recognize and confront racism in all its forms.
3. “The risk of disadvantaging white men in the corporate workplace is virtually nonexistent in our lifetime. Systems, processes, values, linkages, and our human tendency to favor our own is built into the very fabric of our companies, and it will take a lot more than a conversation or several to counter the ecosystem of advantage from which they benefit.”
   • Takeaway: Real change requires systemic efforts. Simple conversations or minor adjustments are insufficient to dismantle deeply ingrained inequities.

Applications for Community Colleges:

• Toxic Leadership: Implement training programs to identify and mitigate toxic behaviors. Establish clear reporting mechanisms and support systems for affected individuals.
• Racism Awareness: Facilitate ongoing education and dialogues about racism. Incorporate anti-racist practices into the curriculum and administrative policies.
• Systemic Change: Conduct thorough reviews of institutional policies and practices to identify and address systemic biases. Engage the entire college community in these efforts.