At June's Eggs & Issues, we explored how our workplaces can best support a diversity and inclusion through our missions, strategies and practices. Moderated by Moorhead Mayor and M State Director of Equity and Inclusion Johnathan Judd, panelists shared their personal experiences as well as professional advice, and included Colette Campbell, SVP/Director of Talent Acquisition, Diversity and Inclusion, Bremer Bank; Dieumerci Christel, Founder & CEO, Enlight; and Kelsey Gordon, Operations Program Manager, Microsoft.
 

    Read The Forum's recap: "Moorhead mayor, business leaders discuss diversity and inclusion in the workplace during Chamber webinar"

Judd challenged attendees to look at their workplaces through an equity lens, meaning viewing inclusion through the lens of a person from a disadvantaged group, noting how important valuing all employees’ experiences are to HR and recruiting. Campbell reminded us to be aware of the role we play in our workplace, asking ‘Are you going to be difference makers or maintain the status quo?’ She shared Bremer’s diversity strategy, and challenged us to not be bystanders and to make a commitment to being more culturally competent. Christel discussed his experience growing up in a refugee camp, moving to the U.S. and experiencing disparaging comments in the workplace, offering ideas on how to be vigilant as leaders. Gordon offered her take on diversity, noting that the word itself actually refers to the differences between individuals and is not restricted to just race, and inclusion is making sure all individuals are valued and heard.

For employers looking to further develop their own diversity and inclusion efforts, all panelists echoed the importance of education, conversation, and creating a culture in which diversity is welcomed. Campbell recommended the book “White Fragility,” and Gordon encouraged offering unconscious bias training and employee resource groups.
 

• “I’m asking you to be innovative, be creative about how as individuals and organizations can create a safe space for everyone to benefit. … More diverse communities make us stronger and more resilient.”—Mayor Judd
• “When you have a diverse culture in your workplace, you are not only opening yourself to new people and bringing in new ideas, but you’re elevating your company.” —Dieumerci Christel
• “When we do not intentionally include, you unintentionally exclude.” —Kelsey Gordon

Thank you to all who joined this important conversation, and to our presenting sponsors, Sanford Health and Xcel Energy.

Check out these Tweets from attendees!

Diversity is being invited to the party, but Inclusion is being asked to dance. - @DieumerciChris Founder & CEO, Enlight #FMWFEggs pic.twitter.com/n2vz32YMe3

— Microsoft Fargo (@MicrosoftFargo) June 23, 2020

All set for this morning’s @FMWFChamber #FMWFEggs webinar about diversity and inclusion in the workplace. pic.twitter.com/Qd75aFJX19

— Kirsten Jensen ❤️ (@MSUMKirsten) June 23, 2020

Diversity efforts require "people who have power, influence and voice" to be in the room, at the event, engaged in the activities and moments to change our systems. Collette Campbell of Bremer #fmwfeggs #engagement #inclusion #respect

— Jane Pettinger (@JanePettinger) June 23, 2020