In my journey as a DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) practitioner, I’ve witnessed the incredible strength and fortitude of underrepresented and minoritized groups. For over a decade, I’ve worked alongside individuals and organizations who have shown what I call reactive resilience. It’s a kind of tenacity that comes from centuries of surviving adversity, a quality deeply rooted in the shared experiences of communities like the African diaspora. This resilience is not only inspiring—it’s often necessary for survival. But I believe it’s time for us to shift our mindset from simply reacting to challenges toward embracing a strategy of proactive purpose.
One of the catalysts for writing this paper was the reactions I observed following the most recent national election. There will always be winners and losers in any election, but I believe we must look beyond the immediate outcomes. Elections are important, but we get to vote every day with how we spend our time, our money, and our resources. By moving from reactive resilience to proactive purpose, we can make meaningful, lasting change far beyond the ballot box.
The Power and Limitations of Reactive Resilience
Reactive resilience has been an essential survival tool for marginalized groups, enabling them to endure systemic inequities, navigate discrimination, and adapt to ongoing barriers. This resilience is evident in everyday acts of survival—whether it’s finding ways to thrive despite systemic bias in the workplace or uniting as a community in the aftermath of racial violence or injustice. In my work with the PK Memorial Foundation, I have witnessed this resilience firsthand in Sierra Leone, where communities have demonstrated remarkable strength in overcoming adversity.
However, while reactive resilience has been vital for survival, it often traps us in a cycle of crisis management. As noted by Crescendo, reactive approaches to DEIB frequently emerge in response to high-profile incidents, such as discrimination or social injustices, and tend to focus on immediate, short-term fixes. These methods can result in performative actions, strain resources, and place undue burdens on marginalized employees during times of crisis. Without proactive strategies, organizations risk exacerbating these challenges and missing the opportunity to implement the systemic changes necessary for a sustainable and inclusive future.
The Case for Proactive Purpose
Proactive purpose shifts our mindset from reactive responses to intentional, forward-thinking actions. It’s about creating the conditions for success before obstacles arise, setting goals rooted in our values, and building structures enabling us to live our fullest potential.
Proactive Purpose as a DEIB Strategy
In my experience, organizations that succeed in DEIB work go beyond compliance and reactionary measures. They embrace a strategy of proactive purpose, embedding DEIB principles into the very fabric of their culture. As discussed by the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, a values-based approach emphasizes core values such as representation, participation, application, and appreciation to drive transformational change. By aligning organizational values with DEIB initiatives, companies can create environments where diversity is seen as an asset, encouraging deeper engagement and innovative outcomes.
Building a Future Defined by Our Vision
As a member of the African diaspora and someone deeply connected to both the U.S. and Sierra Leone, I understand the historical and ongoing challenges our communities face. But I also see the potential for a future that is not constrained by the limits of our past. Moving from reactive resilience to proactive purpose is a journey of empowerment. One that calls us to lead with intention and clarity.
In conclusion, the resilience that has brought us this far is incredible. However, it’s our proactive purpose that will carry us forward into a brighter, more equitable future. We must recognize that while elections come and go, we vote daily with our actions, investments, and commitments. This is the legacy we can build—a legacy not just of overcoming but of creating, leading, and thriving.
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