Moving Forward Rather Than Moving On
Moving forward rather than moving on.
While this is decidedly not a moment about me, I do think it's important to share what's next for me and my company.
The past two weeks have brought my values into sharp focus, and I am seeing clearly where my intentions, words, and actions have missed the mark over the years. And as a business and community leader and guide - and all the other relationship hats I wear - I have a powerful and unique position to affect meaningful change from the inside-out. I will continue doing the work, and that work will have a ripple effect in the places I have influence.
In work, life, and the revolution, we have to examine our special skills and talents and see where our unique razzle-dazzle can make the most difference. So, as we settle into the marathon, here's A SNAPSHOT of what's next for me:
Listening, reading, learning: from diversifying the content I consume and share, to continuing 1:1 conversations, to continuing to educate myself on the past and the present, I am taking in and synthesizing as much information as possible as quickly as I can. Currently reading: "Be The Bridge" (participating in a group with church), and also reading more diverse books to my children like "Don't Touch My Hair!".
Donating: I made some one-time donations last week to national and local organizations, and I will be making recurring donations in the coming week. Sharing my time and treasure with groups doing great work has always been an easy decision, and as I learn about different organizations, I'll be diversifying my donations.
Supporting Black-owned businesses: it often takes extra effort to shop local or switch gears from the known/easy. I purchased some really awesome products last week from a few different Black womxn-owned businesses. I'm committing to the extra effort to support great companies; it's worth it for everyone!
Building a longer table (and, if needed, giving up my seat): if you're reading this and want to be involved with something you know I'm connected to, consider this an open invitation to join in; I'll make it happen.
I'm here, and I'm listening. -Lauren