There is a recurring discourse around divisiveness, incivility and many “anti” — you fill in the blank — anti-DEI, antisemitism, anti-LGBTQ and so on.
I regularly have conversations in the workplace and outside of it centered on the current cultural climate. Individuals express concerns that some leaders, particularly in politics, have explicitly endorsed hostility, animosity, polarization and hatred for others for having a dissenting perspective. Name calling or simply relabeling what one doesn’t like or agree with, as anti-American or downright sinister, grabs headline attention and keeps environments primed for negativity to abound.
Despite the rhetoric to separate us, it may be surprising to know that the DNA of any two human beings is 99.9% identical! The remaining .01% determines hair, eye color, height and other traits which make us unique. The fact that the vast majority of our genetic code is the same is astounding because it binds us together as humans. If we can be more intentional while holding this common thread of togetherness, it can lead us to triumph collectively.
Where does human solidarity fit in an age of technology and media platforms that make it easy to slander and spread untruths to anyone? Is it possible to reclaim mutual trust and respect for each other in an era when seemingly no one desires to listen to an opposing thought, perspective or lived experience? These are imperative questions to reflect upon, especially in the wake of what many have called the upcoming election cycle — the most contentious.
Regardless of one’s party affiliation, religious ideology, or personal stance on any issue, I want to believe it is possible for human solidarity to triumph. As a word, triumph, at face value, may sound like simply winning, but I contend that it is much more. The word comes from the Latin “triumphus” which means, “an achievement, a success; celebratory procession for a victorious general or admiral.” So, triumph is individual and collective achievement or success to be celebrated. I believe this call out to celebrate is meant for everyone, regardless of our human differences — perceived or real.
As an executive in the diversity, equity and inclusion field I am committed to ensuring human difference is valued and supported in the organization. As a mother, widow, sister, community volunteer and many other roles, I am invested in being part of solutions which advance positive outcomes. Imagine a world where regardless of our human differences, we can appreciate, respect and celebrate one another for who we were uniquely created to be! Invoking imagination is a path to the next level where there is room for more equitable and inclusive communities, workplaces, schools, etc.
What a world it would be if we shifted our mindset and giftedness to finding ways to triumph together. Together we can triumph by extending grace and empathy when wronged or when we ourselves offend others with our words or actions. Together we can unhinge hate with more love, kindness, civil discourse, and compassion. Together we can consciously pursue understanding the lived experiences of others who are less than one percent different.
Finding common ground in our shared humanity and distinctiveness is worth celebrating, and something everyone can do regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, multiple identities or even political affiliation.
