DEI Symposium Series - Disrupting Racism in the Workplace

This episode is part of the DEI Symposium Series, developed from the DEI Symposium presented at the 2025 NCDA Global Career Development Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

In this episode, Dr. Frank Gorritz discusses the important topic of racism in the workplace as part of the 2025 DEI symposium series. Dr. Gorritz emphasizes the need to address not just individual instances of racism but also systemic issues including white supremacy culture and its covert manifestations. He highlights the impact of microaggressions on minoritized employees and introduces the Theory of Work Adjustment to explain how workplace dynamics affect these employees. Dr. Gorritz also stresses the importance of career counselors creating a safe space for clients to discuss their experiences and feelings about their workplaces. This discussion reiterates the value of addressing political, social, and identity-related issues in career counseling. Several resources are recommended for further exploration on the topic.

Frank Gorritz, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, ACS, QS is a counselor educator in Florida.

Resources

dRworksbool (2021). White supremacy culture. https://www.dismantlingracism.org/white-supremacy-culture.html

Iyer, D. (2022). Social change now: A guide for reflection and connection. Thick Press.

Jones, K. & Okun, T. (2001). Dismantling racism: A workbook for social change groups. dRworksBook.