Navigating Uncomfortable Conversations About Power, Privilege, and Oppression in the Workplace ft Kendrick Dial

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to avoid discussing power, privilege, and oppression in the workplace, believing it will disrupt harmony and productivity. But by keeping silent, you're feeling the pain of unaddressed dynamics and the perpetuation of inequality. It's time to challenge the ineffective approach and embrace open dialogue to uncover the subtle practices that hinder progress. Join us as we navigate through uncomfortable conversations, cultivate safe spaces, and gain the skills to break down power dynamics in the workplace.

 

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover the subtle practices of power dynamics and oppression in professional environments.
• Learn the art of cultivating safe spaces for dialogues about race and identity.
• Gain insights into the intricacies of discussing power, privilege, and oppression.
• Acquire skills for steering through uncomfortable conversations on power and privilege.
• Understand the pivotal role of leadership in encouraging open discourse and maintaining safe spaces.

 

Meet Kendrick Dial

Kendrick is a multi-talented individual with a passion for combining mental health, social justice, and the arts to create meaningful change. Kendrick, an alumnus of University of Southern California and a BA holder in Africana Studies in Psychology and an MSW holder, brings a wealth of experience, which also includes his time served in the US Navy as a radar technician and a substance abuse counselor. He also works as a Practice Coach at the Academy for Professional Excellence. Kendrick isn't just any professional, he's a creative coach for his business, Creative Engagement and a frontman, songwriter, and producer for the award-winning band The Lyrical Groove - showcasing his diverse talent.

 

One of My FAV Moments: The Need for Conversations on Power, Privilege, and Oppression Creating open dialogue allows for a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding power, privilege, and oppression. These conversations aid in highlighting societal inequalities and the importance of creating an inclusive environment. The key to fostering these conversations is to encourage inquiry, acknowledgment of individual experiences, and facing the discomfort these convos likely bring. Exploring these dynamics can foster change and help create more inclusive environments.

In our discussion, we highlight the significance of these discussions in professional settings. We note that organizations must face the discomfort caused by these conversations and engage in them regardless. Both of us share the belief that these discussions can help people recognize the impact of power dynamics on decision-making and organizational culture. More importantly, it is encouraged that we all regularly practice leaning into discomfort, asking questions, and confronting personal biases as potential pathways for meaningful change.

 

Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!

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To get in touch with Kendrick, you can contact him here: