Learn to implement the intentional practices and make the hard decisions that true equity demands
In The Equity Mindset, celebrated researcher, attorney, and activist Ifeomasinachi Ike delivers a moving and impactful exploration of why equity is so important, the shortcomings of institutional diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives, and how we creatively and boldly design cultures centering the expertise of those who know first-hand how inequity has shaped work culture. The book examines the dynamics of normalized institutional oppression, offers real-world case studies, and provides readers with new practices, key performance indicators (KPIs), and milestones for measuring the success of modern DEI efforts. At its core, The Equity Mindset is about adopting a problem-solving mentality to address social inequities to ensure we all thrive.
This nuanced treatment of principles, practices, and production also includes:
- Practitioner interviews with guidance on how each person, regardless of industry, can advance equity personally and professionally
- Strategies for addressing organizational bias, inequity, and lack of representation
- Tools for leaders and decisionmakers seeking concrete steps to create safer cultures for communities historically marginalized
A can’t-miss resource for managers, executives, board members, and other business leaders, The Equity Mindset is for those with and without traditional authority who seek to advance the movement for equitable treatment in every environment.
Table of Contents
My Mommy’s Foreword ix
Introduction: A Book of Problems, Possibilities, and Practices xv
Chapter 1 Forty Thoughts on Designing with an Equity Mindset 1
Chapter 2 The Work Culture We Inherited (and How It Erases Us All) 9
Chapter 3 Thoughts on Being an Equity Designer 23
Chapter 4 An Equity Lens: Seeing the Right Problem 33
Chapter 5 Testing Assumptions About What Our Cultures Must Be 49
Chapter 6 Are Your People S.A.F.E.? 67
Chapter 7 Remote Work Is a Reasonable Accommodation and We Owe the Disability Justice Community an Apology) 85
Chapter 8 Confront Your Issues with Black Women 95
Chapter 9 The Case for Radical Sabbaticals 107
Chapter 10 Safety, Access, and a Good Sandwich 117
Chapter 11 What Is Your Equity (Mindset) Journey? 135
Chapter 12 Centering Proximate Leadership in Our Research Practices 163
Chapter 13 Pipelines Are Deep Work: What You Should Know and Be Prepared For 179
Chapter 14 Reimagining “Chief”: Ways Leaders Are Designing with an Equity Mindset 187
Epilogue 205
Notes 211
Acknowledgments 215
About the Author 219
Index 221
