Belonging: The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides by Geoffrey L. Cohen
What does it mean to belong? Cohen delves into the science behind creating this sense of belonging and explores research showing how individuals' beliefs about belonging can influence their behavior, academic performance, and relationships. Cohen discusses practical strategies for fostering belonging, particularly in educational settings. He emphasizes the importance of an inclusive and supportive environment and how a sense of belonging can bridge divides, mitigate stereotypes, and promote diversity and equity. This book highlights the psychological factors that influence belonging and offers actionable insights for building more inclusive communities and organizations.
To watch Geoffrey Cohen talk about the book, please visit the link below.
Dare to Lead with Brené Brown, “Brené with Aiko Bethea on Inclusivity at Work: The Heart of the Hard Conversations”
Brené Brown and Aiko Bethea engage in a candid conversation about inclusivity in the workplace. They delve into the complexities of fostering true inclusivity, moving beyond surface-level diversity efforts. The podcast highlights the importance of having uncomfortable, yet necessary, conversations to address systemic issues and create a more equitable work environment. Bethea shares her expertise on navigating these difficult discussions and provides valuable insights into building a workplace culture that genuinely values diversity and prioritizes belonging for all employees. They highlight the importance of transformational vs transactional leadership. It's a compelling exploration of the heart of inclusive workplaces that can apply to creating inclusive student groups as well.
Belonging, A Critical Piece of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion by Carin Taylor (TED Talk)
Carin Taylor discusses the crucial role of belonging in the broader context of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. Taylor shares the “Five Tenets of Belonging”: psychological safety, empathy, acceptance, connection, embraced (PEACE) and how these must be in place for people to feel like they belong in a space or organization. She also shares how she came to the conclusion that there is no single definition for belonging. Taylor shares insights from her own experiences and highlights how organizations can foster a sense of belonging by addressing systemic barriers and fostering connections. Her talk underscores the significance of recognizing and addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of DEI, making it a powerful addition to the conversation on building more inclusive workplaces and communities.
Why Some Companies Are Saying ‘Diversity and Belonging’ Instead of ‘Diversity and Inclusion’ by Jennifer Miller (New York Times).
The focus shifts from "diversity and inclusion" to "diversity and belonging." The article examines how this change in terminology reflects a deeper commitment to fostering inclusivity and equity within organizations. It explores how "belonging" highlights the importance of creating environments where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered. By emphasizing belonging, companies aim to go beyond surface-level diversity efforts and truly integrate individuals from diverse backgrounds into the fabric of the organization. This shift underscores the significance of building cultures that promote genuine connections and a sense of community among employees.