December – Religious Imperialism

US² Consulting on December 1, 2023

Religious Imperialism is discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping on the basis of perceived, or actual, religion and/or religious beliefs. It is the mistreatment of an individual or a group of individuals as a response to their religious beliefs and/or affiliations (or their lack thereof) and it shows the tendency of societies or groups within societies to alienate or repress different subcultures as a recurrent theme in human history.  

Stand up against religious discrimination – even if it’s not your religion | Eboo Patel | Big Think 

Eboo Patel author, founder, and president of Interfaith Youth Core (IFYC), in his video with Big Think, shares his experience of being in an interfaith friend group in high school.  His Jewish friend called him out for being a bystander as he was called anti-Semitic slurs and did nothing, while his Muslim father told him how his faith encourages him to stand up for people who are hurting. Eboo using the most painful moment of his life as a lesson for all of us explains why it’s crucial to be positive and proactive about engaging religious identity towards interfaith cooperation. 

“Our educational institutions, our health care facilities, our athletic leagues, and our businesses are religiously diverse and part of what every educated American needs is the ability to positively engage that religious diversity.” 

-Eboo Patel 

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you meet someone who has a different religion/religious belief from you?  Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people from different religions and/or belief systems? 
  2. What is your current experience with Religious Imperialism?  Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with Religious Imperialism? If yes, what impact did it have on you? 

Today we would like to remind you that it is not necessary for people to believe in the same religion or in any at all to treat someone with kindness and respect. It is important that we acknowledge how we are all different and we encourage you to open your mind to understand not only your own beliefs, but that of others as well.    

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities. 

November – Sizeism

US² Consulting on November 1, 2023

Sizeism is discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping based on size, including height and/or weight. Sizeist attitudes tend to treat people of other sizes negatively with the belief that their size is superior to that of other people. Despite the issue being extremely prevalent, there are currently no specific anti-discrimination laws to prohibit sizeism.

You can be fat and happy | Sofie Hagen | TEDxLondonWomen

Sofie Hagen, in her talk at TEDxLondonWomen, discusses the struggle of hating her body intensely and how she was able to change that. She talks about seeing a fat woman on the internet who claimed that she loved her body, and how it occurred to her just then that she is allowed to do that. This experience allowed her to strip away the negativity from the word “fat” and changed the way she saw the world around her. Sofie also talks about the multi-million-dollar weight loss industry and its negative impact on our youth, and what we need to do create impactful change.

“I refuse to be the object of their ridicule, their hatred, and their culture. I refuse to, and I demand my right to exist. I demand my right to take up space. I demand my right to believe what is a fact: that I do not have to change. They do.”

-Sofie Hagen

Let us ask you this:

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you see someone who has a size difference from you? Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people with visible differences?
  2. What is your current experience with sizeism? Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with sizeism? If yes, what impact did it have on you?

Today we would like to remind you that beauty is a construct of society and one that should not and does not determine your confidence or self-worth. We encourage you to love yourself to the fullest while not only accepting but also embracing your physical traits.

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities.

October – Ableism

US² Consulting on October 1, 2023

Ableism is discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping on the basis of perceived or actual physical and/or intellectual abilities. Ableism also includes the concept of neurodiversity.  It is the customs and inclinations in society that devalue and limit the potential of persons with different abilities on the belief that typical abilities are superior.

In this video, Jesse Sparkman talks about his struggle as a person with a disability as a child and how that taught him how to love himself. He talks about how he thought it was his fault that his parents fought when he was young, and how he then found comfort in music. He shows people his ability, what he can do, and what he has done, despite what others thought.

“I can, I did, I won.” – Jesse Sparkman

Let us ask you this:

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you see someone who has a visible disability (mobility device, hearing assistance, vision assistance)? Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people with visible differences?
  2. Have you encountered discrimination/marginalization due to a different ability of your own?

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities.

August – Lookism

US² Consulting on August 1, 2023

Lookism is discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping based upon physical appearance, including skin tone, body modification, and/or clothing. It is the notion of considering one’s physical appearance or adhering to specific beauty standards as superior, which often leads to discrimination and negative attitudes toward those who do not meet these criteria. This prejudice takes various forms, such as body shaming and exclusion based on looks, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and undermining individuals’ self-esteem. 

Confidence in appearance | YiWen Fan | TEDxYouth@NewtonCollege 

YiWen Fan is a first year IBA student with a passion for HR management, marketing, and business law. Her diverse background from years of immigration has instilled in her a strong, independent personality. She aspires to work with MNCs, backed by experience from workshops and academic research. Yiwen delivered an inspiring TEDx Talk on “Confidence in Appearance,” advocating for inclusivity and acceptance of diverse physical appearances. Her talk encourages positive self-image and celebrates individual uniqueness.  

“The definition of beauty is diverse. Let confidence bring out the good in your body rather than letting some labels be the norm of beauty because everyone in this world is incomparable and unique no matter who you are or where you come from.” 

– YiWen Fan 

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you meet someone who belongs to a different nationality or ethnicity?  Do these first thoughts align with any preconceived notions you might have about people based on their appearance? 
  2. What is your current experience with Lookism?  Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with Lookism? If yes, what impact did it have on you? 
  3. Reflecting on the video, how does the message impact you, your organization, and your community? 
  4. How can you raise awareness about lookism and its harmful effects on individuals and society? How can you promote discussions and initiatives that address the issue of lookism in a constructive and empathetic manner, encouraging positive change?  Let us know if you need support in answering this question! 

Today, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the diverse range of appearances and physical attributes among people. We must actively challenge lookism and promote equity and inclusivity for individuals of all appearances. Embracing diversity and appreciating the uniqueness of each person can lead us to a more compassionate and accepting world. This requires breaking down appearance-based prejudices, advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized individuals, and creating inclusive environments that uplift and affirm people of different looks. Only by taking these actions can we dismantle the barriers of lookism and cultivate a society that embraces and celebrates the worth and contributions of all its members. 

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities. 

Are you looking to be more diverse and inclusive as an individual, business, or organization? The next CARES® cohort for the fourth quarter of 2023 is now available! CARES® Certification is the leading benchmark in providing trustworthy credentials for action planning. Each module of the program is facilitated by a certified CARES® trainer, ensuring that you receive the highest quality instruction and support. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a positive impact – join the CARES® Certification program today! 

Visit our website or reach out to certification@us2consulting.com for the next steps. 

 

July – Ethnocentrism

US² Consulting on July 6, 2023

Ethnocentrism is the belief in the superiority of one’s own nationality, ethnic group or culture, often accompanied by a disregard or negative attitude towards other groups. It manifests in various forms, including xenophobia. 

Ethnocentrism highlights the tendency of societies or individuals to devalue and exclude individuals based on their ethnic background, or more specifically their nationality, perpetuating negative stereotypes and assumptions. This can have profound effects on marginalized groups, leading to discrimination and a lack of understanding and acceptance. Ethnocentrism denies the valuable contributions and experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds, creating barriers to cultural exchange, harmony, and social cohesion. 

Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism | What is It? 

John, also known as FunSimpleLIFE, is an individual based in California who effectively utilizes his platform to educate and raise awareness. With their compelling slogan “LIFE, Idea, Fun, & Education,” John seeks to engage audiences, sharing valuable knowledge and promoting a sense of enjoyment and growth.  

In this video, FunSimpleLIFE delves into the concept of ethnocentrism and its implications in today’s diverse world. With a keen focus on promoting understanding and inclusivity, they discuss how ethnocentrism can hinder cultural appreciation and create divisions among different groups. Through thoughtful analysis and real-life examples, FunSimpleLIFE emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the perspectives and contributions of all ethnicities. They encourage viewers to challenge their own biases and engage in meaningful dialogue to foster a more accepting and harmonious society. 

“It is important to put yourself in the other person’s shoes to understand how the person sees and interacts with the world.” 

– FunSimpleLIFE 

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you meet someone who identifies as a nationality different than yourself?  Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people of that nationality? 
  2. What is your current experience with Ethnocentrism?  Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with Ethnocentrism? If yes, what impact did it have on you? 
  3. Reflecting on the video, how does the message impact you?  Your environment/ organization? 

Today, it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the cultural diversity that exists within our global community. We must actively challenge ethnocentric attitudes and practices, promoting equity and inclusivity for people of all nationalities. By embracing diversity and recognizing the value of every individual, we can cultivate a more harmonious and accepting world. This involves dismantling prejudice, advocating for the rights and protections of marginalized communities, and creating inclusive spaces that affirm and support people from diverse backgrounds. Only through these efforts can we break down the barriers of ethnocentrism and foster a society that embraces and celebrates the contributions of all its members. 

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities. 

June – Heterosexism

US² Consulting on June 12, 2023

Heterosexism is discrimination and prejudice based on sexuality, specifically favoring heterosexuality over other sexualities. Heterosexism highlights the tendency of societies or individuals to devalue and exclude individuals based on their sexuality, perpetuating negative stereotypes and assumptions. This can have profound effects on LGBQA+ individuals, leading to feelings of shame, self-doubt, and a lack of acceptance. Heterosexism denies the valuable contributions and experiences of LGBQA+ individuals, creating barriers to equity and social inclusion. 

Notice that we are only using some of the letters from the moniker LGBTQIA+.  This is because the letters include identifiers for both gender and sexuality.  Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, and Asexual are the terms aligning with sexuality while Transgender and Intersex align with gender identity.  Queer aligns with both gender and sexuality – signifying a fluid orientation (for either gender or sexuality).  It is important to differentiate between the letters of the moniker to signify that gender and sexuality are not the same identity nor are they predictive of one another. 

Gender vs. Sexuality | Youmanity

Youmanity is an organization that focuses on celebrating diversity and promoting equality and inclusion. Founded with the aim of breaking down barriers and fostering understanding between individuals, Youmanity utilizes various mediums to spread its message, including its popular YouTube channel.

In this video, they delve into the complex and often misunderstood concepts of gender and sexuality. Through a combination of informative narration, engaging visuals, and personal stories, the video aims to educate viewers and challenge preconceived notions.

“Understanding yourself can take time, and it is perfectly all right to change your mind & to express yourself the way it feels right for you.” –Youmanity

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you meet someone who identifies as LGBTQ+? Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people of different sexual orientations?
  2. What is your current experience with Heterosexism? Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with Heterosexism? If yes, what impact did it have on you?
  3. Reflecting on the video, how does the message impact you? Your environment/organization?

Today, it is crucial to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. We must actively challenge heterosexist attitudes and practices in our society, promoting equality and inclusivity for all sexual orientations. By embracing diversity and recognizing the value of every individual, we can foster a more just and accepting world. This involves breaking down prejudice, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and protections, and creating spaces that affirm and support all sexual orientations.

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities.

May – Sanism

US² Consulting on May 1, 2023

Sanism is discrimination and prejudice based on mental health, including assumptions about mental illness and neurodivergence. It manifests in various forms such as stigma, discrimination, and exclusion. Sanism highlights the tendency of societies or individuals to disregard individuals’ valuable contributions and experiences based on their mental health status and to focus instead on negative stereotypes and assumptions. This can profoundly impact individuals with mental health challenges, leading to feelings of shame, isolation, and a lack of understanding.  

Sanism: Dr. Jennifer Poole at TEDxRyersonU 

Dr. Jennifer Poole is a disability studies professor at Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada, who has also done important work in the field of sanism. In her research, teaching, and advocacy, she challenges sanist assumptions and seeks to promote a more inclusive and equitable society for individuals with mental health challenges. Her work highlights the need to recognize and challenge sanist attitudes and practices in our society, and to promote a more compassionate and supportive approach to mental health.  

“Let us elevate emotion, feeling, and connection with reason and logic. Why not? Anti-sanism is also a connecting thing, so whereas we’ve been taught that there’s us, the rational, and them, the irrational, I say I’ve never met an irrational person who is not also rational or a rational person who is not also irrational. False dichotomies, people. Cross the floor. Change the pronoun. Let’s call us WE.” 

– Dr. Jennifer Poole   

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you meet someone who is experiencing a different mental health situation than you?  Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people of different mental health statuses? 
  2. What is your current experience with Sanism?  Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with Sanism? If yes, what impact did it have on you? 
  3. Reflecting on the video, how does the message impact you?  Your environment/organization? 

Today, it is crucial to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of individuals with mental health challenges, and challenge sanist attitudes and practices in our society. By opening our minds and hearts to the value of every individual, regardless of their mental health status, we can promote greater social justice and inclusivity for all. This means breaking down stigma, promoting access to resources and support, and advocating for policies that prioritize mental health and well-being. 

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities. 

April – Ageism

US² Consulting on April 1, 2023

Ageism is discrimination and prejudice based on age, including generational assumptions, and it manifests in various forms such as stereotypes, assumptions, and exclusion.  Ageism highlights the tendency of societies or individuals to disregard the valuable contributions and experiences of individuals based on their age and to focus instead on their perceived limitations and negative stereotypes. 

Ageism in the USA: The paradox of prejudice against the elderly | Ashton Applewhite | Big Think 

Ashton Applewhite is an author, activist, and speaker who has dedicated her career to raising awareness about ageism and promoting intergenerational cooperation.  Her groundbreaking book, “This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism,” challenges the negative stereotypes and prejudices surrounding aging and encourages individuals and societies to embrace the opportunities and benefits of an aging population.  Through her work, Applewhite seeks to inspire people of all ages to embrace their full potential, promote social justice and equity, and build a more inclusive and age-friendly world. 

“We are facing an unparalleled set of challenges.  I’m thinking, in particular, about the health of the planet.  Older people and younger people are going to have to collaborate to solve these problems.  So, when you hear old versus young rhetoric, question it.” 

– Ashton Applewhite 

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you meet someone who is younger or older than you?  Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people of different ages? 
  2. What is your current experience with ageism?  Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with ageism?  If yes, what impact did it have on you? 
  3. Reflecting on the video, how does the message impact you?  Your environment/organization? 

Today, it is crucial to recognize that age should not be a factor in how we treat others.  We must acknowledge and celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of people of all ages, and challenge ageist attitudes and practices in our society.  By opening our minds and hearts to the value of every individual, regardless of their age, we can promote greater social justice and inclusivity for all.   

This is a reminder that every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting and that there is always room for growth in ourselves and in our communities. 

March – Sexism

US² Consulting on March 1, 2023

Sexism is the discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping on the basis of perceived, or actual, binary gender (male/female) and societal stereotypes surrounding the binary gender system.  The beliefs around the fundamental nature of men and women and the roles they ‘should’ perform in society are linked to sexism.  Gender stereotypes, which are the result of sexist assumptions about women and men, can place one gender above the other.  

Want Gender Equality? Let’s Get Creative | Kyl Myers | TEDxSaltLakeCity 

Kyl Myers, a sociologist who specializes in gender and sexual & reproductive health, talks about how gender inequality starts in utero and how children are taught the social and cultural norms that are ‘expected’ of them within our society based on their anatomy – from birth!  Kyl shares the idea that if we want adulthood gender equality, we have to change the way we treat children.  Three points are highlighted in this talk.  First, there are real and harmful gender disparities experienced by adults; second, these disparities are rooted in childhood; and third, we have the power to do something about it. 

“What if, instead of treating boys and girls dramatically different, we tried to instill in them well-rounded, positive traits like kindness, a sense of adventure, compassion, critical thinking, and comedic timing.  Most of us want a world without gender inequality, but it’s going to take us all being honest with ourselves about how we reinforce it.  If equality is what we want, we have to create it.” 

-Kyl Myers 

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you encounter someone of a different gender?  Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people? 
  2. What is your current experience with sexism?  Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with sexism?  If yes, what impact did it have on you? 
  3. Reflecting on the TEDx Talk, how does the message impact you?  Your environment/organization? 

This month, we want to address the pervasive issue of sexism and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.  It is important to recognize that gender does not define a person’s capabilities or attitudes, and it cannot be a determining factor in the opportunities that are offered to them.  We need to stand up against sexism and take action to eliminate it from our communities, workplaces, and institutions. 

Only by working together can we create a society that values and respects all people, regardless of their gender or any other aspect of their identity. 

Are you concerned about “saying the wrong thing” with respect to diversity, equity, and inclusion in professional and/or personal settings?  Are you struggling to navigate challenging situations that require sensitivity and awareness?  

February – Racism

US² Consulting on February 1, 2023

Racism is the discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping on the basis of perceived, or actual, race and/or racial identity. Racism can often lead to the belief that race is the number one determining factor of human traits and capacities and that racial differences create an intrinsic superiority of a particular race. 

50 years of racism—why silence isn’t the answer | James A. White Sr. | TEDxColumbus 

James A. White Sr., a coach, mentor, and trainer who is dedicated to sharing his experiences, insight, enthusiasm, and passion to impart his message with all people, talks about his experience as an 18-year-old person of color in the 1960s joining the Air Force and relocating his family to Mountain Home, Idaho. He reflects on the past 53 years from his first experience with discrimination and the struggle of being rejected out of apartments, motels, and trailer parks.  He then connects these experiences with his current struggle to provide counsel to his grandsons facing the same bias in the 21st century. 

This talk with TedxColumbus was the first time he’s shared this provocative and heartbreaking story in public after his decision to be silent no more. 

“I want to appeal to Americans.  I want to appeal to their humanity, to their dignity, to their civic pride, and ownership; to be able to not react to these heinous crimes in an aversive manner. But instead, to elevate your level of societal knowledge, your level of societal awareness and societal consciousness, to then collectively come together to make sure that we speak out against and we challenge any kind of insanity that makes it okay to kill unarmed people, regardless of their ethnicity, regardless of their race, regardless of their diversity makeup. 

We have to challenge that. It doesn’t make any sense. And the only way I think we can do that is through a collective.” 

-James A. White Sr. 

Let us ask you this: 

  1. What are your typical initial/first thoughts when you see someone who has a different race or ethnicity from you?  Do these first thoughts align with what you believe to be true about all people? 
  2. What is your current experience with racism?  Have you, or someone you know, ever had a lived experience with racism?  If yes, what impact did it have on you? 
  3. Reflecting on the TEDx Talk, how does the message impact you?  Your environment/organization? 

This month, we would like to remind you that race and/or ethnicity does not define a person’s capabilities and attitudes; thus, it should not affect the opportunities that are being offered to them by society.  Racism is a plague that continuously affects our communities, and we need to stand up and take action against it. 

Every moment is an opportunity to continue learning and reflecting.  There is always room for growth in ourselves, and in our communities. 

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