In navigating change, I encourage those in the diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) profession to continue their professional development and self-care.
Annette D. Butler, D.B.A., Sr. CAAP
President, American Association for Access, Equity, and Diversity (AAAED)
Every four years this country elects a new leader. The opinions regarding the selected leader vary: some are happy, others dissatisfied, and unfortunately some are indifferent. Regardless of the opinion, change and uncertainty are inevitable with new administrations. This uncertainty, partnered with incivility in the country and world, can be a cause for pause especially for those in the access, equity, and diversity profession. Further, this uncertainty is heightened by recent Executive Orders, layoffs, reduction in force, and other actions at federal, state, and local levels. In light of this uncertainty, we may ask ourselves, what will happen to us as access, equity, and diversity professionals? Can we retool into other apsects of organizational development or human resources to bring value to an organization? These are all valid concerns and questions.
As an access, equity, and diversity professional, the expectation is for us to have answers, advice, and be current on laws and related policies. Little or no emphasis may be placed on our self-care, stress management, or maintenance of a “safe space” to decompress. Regardless of our feelings, change is inevitable. However, we are not alone. The American Association for Access, Equity, and Diversity (AAAED) is a non-partisan organization; it is a resource that provides professional development, networking, and support for those responsible for creating inclusive and accessible workplaces. AAAED is an organization that supports the rights of all individuals to thrive based on the value they bring without discrimination due to their characterics protected by law. Whether the focus is on ingress to opportunities regardless of abilities (i.e. access), impartiality to support the success of qualified individuals (equity), or respect for the uniqueness of a person (diversity), AAAED continues to be a resource as we navigate change. The AAAED educational programs support professionals enhancing their legal knowledge of individuals’ civil rights, technical and administrative skills, and their understanding of current access, equity, and diversity related issues.
When Executive Orders cease, we still have the Constitution of the United States of America as a protection of all civil rights – as a promise that our work will not become irrelevant. During a time of immense uncertainty and incivility, the importance of self-care and continued professional development should be a priority. As AAAED enters its 51st year, I encourage you to connect with like-minded professionals to revisit your self-care, expand your professional development, and gain additional resources to help you navigate the ever changing landscape of advocating for inclusive, accessible, and civil workplaces. AAAED is a resource and a place that welcomes all individuals.
Will you join us, the American Association for Access, Equity, and Diversity, as we continue this great work?
Thank you to Beth Valentine, Ph.D., AAAED – Research and Member Resources Chair, for reviewing and providing feedback to this article.
