5 Things / Pain Points
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In a week in which federal DEI came crashing down (we lost the FDA as a client), I was grateful for distractions: the graduation show for my comedy class (I performed a 5 minute bit on pickleball and diversity); and a keynote at a national sales conference for a financial services firm. The keynote was about how to build authentic relationships with increasingly diverse clients.
It’s a topic I love: the business case is very clear…it’s ultimately about making more money – but we do that through kind curiosity and building authentic connections. I love a good win-win. After, a senior leader told everyone I had “rizz.” How about that?
Later, at the airport, a man introduced himself to me as a leader at the firm. He admitted that he frequently “stays in his lane”, referencing a line from my talk and that spending all his time with people like him was getting kind of boring. Yet it feels safe and comfy, doesn’t it?
No matter what anyone says, we cannot stop the discussion around inclusion. This is a pain point for people in sales…many are afraid of saying the wrong thing, so they’re awkward and inauthentic around people different from them. That’s not good for anyone. Nothing matters more than authentic connections.
This Week's Good Vibes:
Bloomberg Stands for Climate Action
After Donald Trump’s second withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, Michael Bloomberg’s philanthropy stepped up to fill the funding void. Bloomberg Philanthropies, with other U.S. funders, will ensure the country meets its global climate commitments, including emissions reporting and support for vulnerable nations. This shows how private philanthropy can counter political shifts that deprioritize climate action, DEI, or anything else. ♐Reflect on how your org can bridge gaps when policies falter.
Hyatt and Carnival Lead Accessibility Wave
Companies like Hyatt Hotels and Carnival Cruise Line are stepping up to better accommodate neurodivergent travelers.Hyatt is pioneering pre-arrival room selection, digital keys, weighted blankets, and sensory-friendly certifications in select properties. Carnival, in partnership with KultureCity, provides sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones and fidget toys, along with extensive crew training to assist guests. ♐Advocate for sensory-friendly and accessible spaces at any opportunity you can.
A Trailblazer’s Moment
Karla Sofía Gascón made history as the first openly transgender performer nominated for Best Actress at the Oscars, recognized for her role in Emilia Pérez (available on Netflix). I loved this quirky film but it had its critics, including some trans folks. Despite facing online abuse and navigating anti-trans rhetoric, Gascón has remained outspoken. ♐Celebrate art’s power to challenge hate.
Thailand Says 'I Do' to Equality
Thailand made history as the first Southeast Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage, with 1,832 couples registering their unions on the first day. Mass weddings in Bangkok and celebrations across the country marked the milestone. The move is expected to boost Thailand’s tourism industry and set an example for neighboring countries. While the law ensures legal and financial equality, gaps remain in family law, prompting calls for further reform. ♐ Celebrate progress but push for full legal protections.
Brave Rep. Emily Randall
U.S. Rep. Emily Randall, the first out queer woman from Washington state in Congress, has made her office restroom in the Capitol open to all genders in defiance of Speaker Mike Johnson’s restrictive bathroom policy. Her colorful sign, proclaiming inclusivity, contrasts with Johnson’s rule requiring restroom use based on sex assigned at birth. ♐Small acts of defiance can symbolize greater change.
Good Vibes to Go:
Read this article by Lily Zheng in Harvard Business Review in which they present a new framework: What Comes After DEI.