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Are You Using the Right Language to Talk About DEI? episode artwork

Sep 12, 2025 17 min

Are You Using the Right Language to Talk About DEI?

from Imagine Belonging at Work

Are you struggling with how to talk about your organization's DEI commitments in today's volatile climate? In this episode of the "Navigating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion's New Reality" mini-series, host Rhodes Perry offers message-tested communication strategies to fortify the heart of your work. Discover how to take a "Goldilocks approach," balancing what you say to different audiences to avoid legal risks while protecting your brand's reputation. Learn why the full phrase "diversity, equity, and inclusion" is more powerful than the acronym "DEI" and how to frame your initiatives around universal values like fairness, respect, and belonging. This episode gives you the practical tools to navigate challenging conversations, counter divisive narratives, and ensure your message resonates with everyone. Key Takeaways & Timestamps [2:00] The "Goldilocks approach" to DEI messaging. [4:30] Organizational development best practices for communications. [7:00] Winning messages that resonate across audiences. [10:15] The power of using full words over the "DEI" acronym. [12:00] Using "targeted universalism" to fortify your work. [14:30] Practices to avoid when communicating about DEI. Grow the Belonging Movement! 📝Sign up for the Belonging Movement Newsletter: http://www.rhodesperry.com/subscribe 📚Get a copy of Imagine Belonging: http://www.rhodesonamazon.com/ 🏆Book a 1:1 coaching session with Rhodes: https://tinyurl.com/5n6f47pz

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Are You Using the Right Language to Talk About DEI?

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This episode was published on September 12, 2025.

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