Centering the Disability Community to Combat Systemic Racism
The National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy's Adam Fishbein discusses disability justice activism and what the philanthropic community can do to center the disability community in efforts to eradicate systemic racism in an interview with Zakiya Mabery, founder of B. Global Diversity & Inclusion Strategic Planning.
Regarding what can the philanthropic community do to center the disability community in efforts to combat systemic racism, Mabery said:
What we need to do to combat systemic racism is for leadership in organizations to take a stance of anti-racism. That starts with hiring experienced professionals to train their people about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Effective change starts at the top. To do this, I recommend more awareness campaigns because there seems to be a real knowledge gap around the issue. There also must be a long-term commitment to addressing the issue internally. One or 2 trainings will not change mindsets. Organizations need to have a budget for DEI training and understand that change takes time. Lastly, it should be understood Blacks or minorities do not need to prove racism exists.