Real and Raw Reflections: Personal Experiences with D.E.I.J.

In an effort to create change, every organization must use its resources to identify the challenges with diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (D.E.I.J.). A majority of environmental organizations lack diversity across all levels and departments. This lack of diversity naturally creates a non-inclusive work environment, making it extremely difficult for marginalized groups to feel welcomed or respected in both their organization and the industry. Internally auditing environmental organizations to gain transparent feedback from current and former employees is critical for increasing diversity in workplaces.

As an African-American man in the United States, I know all too well that the repercussions of making your voice heard are often more detrimental than staying silent. With that being said, providing a safe environment for marginalized groups to share their experiences, perspectives, and challenges they have faced is essential. 

To encourage normalizing D.E.I.J. conversations across the environmental sector, I interviewed and invited a number of powerful individuals in the sector to share the challenges they’ve faced, current issues they’ve experienced, and offer words of inspiration for others who identify with them. These stories are meant to raise awareness, inform, and inspire our collective industry to know better, be better, and do better. 

Respectfully,

Eddie Love, Program Manager and D.E.I.J. Committee Chair

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