5 Things / Good Trouble
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I recently delivered a keynote at the DFW Inclusion Conference and spoke about how we can come together in our increasingly polarized society. My talk built upon what my friend Kelvin Goss spoke about earlier. Kelvin challenged us to get into “good trouble.”
That was the challenge set forth by the late great Congressman John Lewis, a legend who fought with Dr. King for civil rights: “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and help redeem the soul of America.”
Here’s how Kelvin reinterpreted this message to urge us to get into good trouble. I’m ready. Are you?
💡speak up for inclusion and equity
💡challenge bias
💡educate others
💡create allies
💡lead by example
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Curriculum in Washington
Washington state in the US has taken a big step forward by passing a law requiring LGBTQ+ inclusive curricula in public schools, joining six other states. The law ensures that students will learn about the histories, contributions, and perspectives of marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals. Sharing these stories can lead to better attendance and academic achievement due to safer environments and reduced harassment in schools. This is such a positive move, especially considering the wave of anti-LGBTQ laws in other states, many of which directly impact youth.
Big ROI on Child Care Benefits
For every dollar invested in childcare benefits, employers see significant returns, ranging from $0.90 to $4.25, through reduced absenteeism and attrition, according to a new study by Boston Consulting Group and Moms First. Examples from companies like UPS, Etsy, and Steamboat showcase tangible benefits towards boosting workforce participation and retention. Currently, only 12% of employees have access to childcare benefits, and this disproportionately affects part-timers and low-income earners. I hope more companies will make these investments, which are just good for everyone.
“Hop” Showcases Authentic Disability Representation
"Hop," the first animated show with a cast of characters who all have some type of disability, debuts on Max this week. Led by Hop, a frog with a shorter leg, and friends like Filipa, a neurodivergent squirrel, the show is hilarious for kids while fostering empathy. What I love is that voice actors include David Connolly, a double amputee, and Charlotte Walker, who has autism, adding authenticity. The powerful representation de-stigmatizes these disabilities. The show was developed in partnership with RespectAbility
Federal Forms to be Updated for Better Representation
The US government is expanding race and ethnicity options on federal forms, including the next Census. Additions include a Middle Eastern or North African category and a reformulation of the Hispanic or Latino categories. They’re also testing sexual orientation and gender identity questions in next year’s American Community Survey for possible inclusion in 2030. This is a huge deal because more precise data collection is essential for informed policymaking, resource allocation, and addressing systemic inequalities. It also allows for better representation and advocacy for historically underrepresented groups.
Yurok Becomes First Tribal Nation to Co-manage Land
The Yurok Tribe reclaimed 125 acres near Redwood National and State Parks, a historic return after 90% of their land was taken during the California Gold Rush. They became the first tribal nation to co-manage land with the National Park Service under a historic memorandum of understanding signed by the tribe, Redwood National and State Parks, and the non-profit Save the Redwoods League. The tribe plans a Yurok village, cultural center, trails, and salmon habitat restoration. This is a monumental step towards healing past injustices and honoring Indigenous wisdom in land management and conservation.
This Week’s Call to Action:
Tomorrow is Transgender Day of Visibility, celebrated each year on March 31. My good friend Rhodes Perry created a checklist on how to show up for your TGX (transgender and gender expansive) colleagues. It’s a great personal and professional resource.