5 Things / Spring Break
This week my 11-year-old son is on spring break. I thought it might be fun if he watched 5 Things in 15 Minutes on Monday (he was happy for the screen access!) I forwarded him the newsletter but instead of using the YouTube link, he used the LinkedIn link (insert this week) and then was asked to create a LinkedIn account in order to watch. In three minutes, my son Patrick told the world that he’s an Amazon account manager. That was my first LOL moment after the show wrapped.
Then I saw that he left comments on the video like “Such interesting stories!” and “What amazing thoughts!” – and I think he was sincere! Sure, he’s biased, but still, it’s a fun show and I know he’s part of a generation that appreciates and values diversity. Simply by the exposure to diversity in his school and neighborhood, his brain gets messages that counteract stereotypes that I’ve had to train myself out of over years.
Patrick is part of my “why” – why I do what I do, my sense of purpose. I’m raising my cisgender, white son to be aware of his privilege and responsibility to be inclusive of others. I encourage you to discover your why. In fact, I’d love to hear it… what keeps you going, especially in the face of competing priorities, pushback, and the slow pace of progress? What’s your sense of purpose around DEI?
LinkedIn Lets Users Add “Dyslexic Thinking” as a Skill
LinkedIn now lets its users add “dyslexic thinking” to their profile as a skill. I love this re-frame because people with dyslexia (almost one in five) can bring great problem-solving and creative thinking skills to work. This matters because it re-imagines something historically considered a deficit as an asset.
Air Force Offers Help To Military Families Hurt By States' New Anti-LGBTQ Laws
The U.S. Air Force has let its personnel know that they will help families relocate, or with medical and legal help, if they are personally affected by the onslaught of anti-LGBTQ laws in various states that specifically target transgender children. This matters because the Air Force employs hundreds of thousands of personnel, and this sends a signal that family safety comes first. (thanks to Corey for this one!)
One Architect’s Mission to Bring DeafSpace Design to the Masses
The DeafSpace design philosophy, developed by architect Richard Dougherty, will be unveiling its first public space project on the campus of Gallaudet University. This matters because although the project contains more than 150 architectural elements that take into account “the distinct way the deaf people relate to their physical environment,” it’s designed to be inclusive for everyone (in particular, the spherical designs give everyone equal status). New DeafSpace projects will now extend into the neighboring community.
More and More, Brands Are Showing Older Women in Ads
More brands (especially in the beauty industry) are showing older women in ads, and, in fact, an age-positive stock photo library has been launched to represent age diversity. Ageism is alive and well, but I love these stories because they show something tangible organizations can counteract negative stereotypes about older people. (thanks to Karen Catlin for this one!)
Pantene Celebrates a Beautiful Transformation
Pantene gave Isa, a transgender woman in her forties, the quinceanera she never had. They made a short film showcasing this journey and the preparations leading up to the event, including her family’s ultimate acceptance. This matters because these are the stories that largely go untold and because this film celebrates Isa in all her authenticity.