“Inclusion is not a matter of political correctness. It is the key to growth.” (Jesse Jackson)
I’m tired today. Tired of struggling to find words that will make people care enough to make change. Tired of shouting into spaces that choose to turn a deaf ear when people are crying out for representation and acknowledgement. Tired of seeing significant, critical issues turned into fodder and clickbait.
But I am reminded by articles like these that there will be no rest for the weary. There is too much work to be done. So I will keep shouting. I will keep speaking my truth on every platform I have in the hope that it reaches someone who is finally ready to listen. Because I’ve dedicated my life to social justice. For, like Robert Frost, I have promises to keep. And miles to go before I sleep.
Inclusion is not a black and white topic. Diversity alone is not the answer. Systems of privilege and structural racism have much deeper roots than a single event. Eradicating them requires complex solutions along with empathy for those who have been historically excluded. I’ve long given up the hope of finding that in the Dallas blogger scene or influencer marketing industry at large.
This isn’t a blogger problem, this is a human problem. “Bloggerville” is just one more institution in which inequity and implicit bias rear their ugly heads and create a widening wealth and opportunity gap. While I appreciate Dallas Observer amplifying these messages (however trivializing their editorial tone may be), I hope their readers think more critically about this multifaceted and pervasive issue.
P.S. If you’re interested in reading more about this topic, I encourage you to visit Jaleesa’s blog and Valery’s for a serious dose of TRUTH.
Lauren Dycus says
I agree the Dallas Observer is trivializing this feedback. It’s not drama, it’s legitimate questions to a global business about inclusion. I want to help you make an impact, Stephanie!
Stephanie Drenka says
Thank you, Lauren!! You understand better than anyone that the problem is deeper than one conference. Appreciate you always being an informed and empathetic ally. Proud of you for finding a company that is committed to inclusion– and doesn’t think checking superficial boxes for diversity is enough to make an impact.
Meagan says
Nailed it yet again. Love you, Steph.
Stephanie Drenka says
Love you, Meag. Grateful for you.
Tara says
such powerful words in eloquent writing – you are so inspiring! I agree on so many levels.
Stephanie Drenka says
Thank you for reading, Tara!! It’s comforting to know that there are like-minded bloggers here.