On July 9th, in a statement on LinkedIn, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), announced its decision to drop the "E" from DEI. SHRM is the world's largest HR association dedicated to creating better workplaces that "work for all," and positions itself as being "the voice of all things work."

SHRM's statement on LinkedIn said:

"While we shift to I&D, our commitment to advancing equity remains steadfast. Equity will be integrated under the broader inclusion framework, continuing to be a priority in our strategy and leadership decisions."

If you have read my most recent book, Imagine Belonging, you know the true ingredients required to make a commitment – one of those ingredients is being able to say out loud what you are committed to. Using this logic...a commitment to equity can't be real if we're afraid to say it.

When the announcement was first made, I immediately knew who I wanted to talk to...the person who wrote the bestselling book on the topic of equity, Minal Bopaiah.

Minal had a lot to share, and as she was offering her take, I thought to myself, "why not turn this exchange into a podcast episode?" When I invited Minal to the show, she was all in!

I’m excited to welcome you to this exclusive interview with Minal Bopaiah, Brevity & Wit Founder and bestselling author of Equity. Minal combines her experiences and interests in human-design, DEI, psychology, and strategic communications to help her clients achieve the change they desire.

During our conversation, you'll:

--Discover why prioritizing inclusive behaviors alone will set your colleagues up for failure if they lack the systems and structures to support these practices.

--Explore the unintended consequences of SHRM’s decision on entire programs, positions, and departments that have the word "equity" in their titles.

--Gain insights on how to respond to objections and push back that employers and colleagues may have, feeling emboldened because of SHRM's recent decision.

Today’s conversation is designed to support people like you – visionary people leaders, and those on their way to joining us. Savor this insightful talk, and if you’re looking for more ways to connect with inspiring leaders like Minal, be sure to join the Belonging Membership Community.

The Belonging Membership Community is a practice space where we can try putting our shared values of belonging, community, collaboration, and joy into action. Members have the unique opportunity to connect with guests like Minal for 1:1 laser coaching sessions.

Join the community here: www.belongingmembershipcommunity.com

Stay connected with Rhodes: www.rhodesperry.com/subscribe

Learn more about Minal’s book Equity: https://theequitybook.com/.

Thanks for growing our #BelongingMovement!