Emotional Intelligence and Diversity: Actions to Help Address Racial Injustice

The last few weeks have given us yet more examples of racial inequities in our society, from the killing of Ahmaud Aubrery’s and the Central Park false police call threat to George Floyd’s murder in Minneapolis.  Not surprisingly, there have been reactions in the form of protests that in some cases have resulted in violence and have been hijacked by looters.  Many are asking what can we do and how can we address this reality of oppression, inequity and injustice.  We think that the Emotional Intelligence and Diversity approach can offer some help. 

Here are questions to explore and discuss from each of the four areas:

Affirmative Introspection asks us to take a look inside.
• With which differences am I more and less comfortable? What might be at the root of my discomfort?
• What are my unconscious biases? How can I learn more about them?
• Where do I have privilege (eg., skin color, education, first language, etc.)?
• How do I benefit from them, even unknowingly?

Self-Governance gives you tools to manage what you find once you’ve reflected.
• How do I deal with the ambiguity I feel when I don’t know what to do or say?
• How can I reframe my self-talk to help empower myself when I feel impotent in the face of inequities?
• What are the potential benefits and positive outcomes in the situations I am facing?

Intercultural Literacy directs you to understand and relate to others better.
• How can I learn about others’ experiences and feelings with the issue?
• How can I find out what might be helpful to others experiencing the pain of inequity and racism?
• What cultural differences might be influencing the behavior of others?

Social Architecting focuses you on how you can develop inclusive environments.
• How can I help people see the behaviors and reactions of others in new and different ways?
• How and where can I create environments where people can share and hear each other’s stories without judgment?
• How can I engage others in pinpointing and addressing inequities in my team or organization?

These are just starting points, however, often that is what we need to begin dialogue and change. Think about the groups and forums you are part of where you can begin the conversation.