By Dr. Artika R. Tyner
Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. DEI is the hallmark of an inclusive leader, as Dr. Artika Tyner outlines and develops in her book The Inclusive Leader: Taking Intentional Action for Justice and Equality. Going forward, this type of leadership in companies is needed, now more than ever, if a company expects to remain relevant.
Dr. Tyner refers to an old African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” In her book, she details the strategies and implementation necessary for organizational change, in order to create a diverse culture of inclusion, and that requires a team. Such change requires vision and intentionality from the top down, a DEI Strategic Leadership Action Plan, the data to measure the progress and results, and the power to implement and monitor the plan. Also, where marginalized groups are concerned, implicit bias, stereotype threat, cultural taxation, and microaggressions must be addressed. She takes special note that this a journey and not a destination.
Dr. Tyner takes on this question in regard to inclusive leadership and diversity: “What’s in my hands to make a difference?” This question is both thought-provoking and empowering, interweaving inclusive leadership and social justice. Indeed, when we examine our own leadership strengths and find our passion, amazing things happen. More often than not, all one has to do is look around.
Bringing her experience as an educator, author, and attorney, Dr. Tyner makes a highly compelling argument for the hallmarks of an inclusive leader and the benefits he/she/they bring to a company, an organization, and a community. A culture of diversity brings forth strength and positive change in the world, a healthy exchange of ideas, and the difference between action and “a nice idea.”
Whether you head a company, are a chief diversity officer, a community leader, etc., The Inclusive Leader is an excellent guide to take you to the next level.
W.D. Foster-Graham
W.D. Foster-Graham is a native son of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He received a B.A. in psychology from Luther College, and he was an original member of the multi-Grammy-Award-winning ensemble, Sounds of Blackness. He has also been recognized by the International Society of Poets as one of its “Best New Poets of 2003,” is a guest writer for journalist/author/entertainer Wyatt O’Brian Evans.
