Urban League Defines Diversity and Addresses Biggest Challenges at DEI Symposium

The conversation about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is an important part of what Urban League of Northwest Indiana (Gary, IN) represents. On Thursday, March 6, students and adults throughout the Region gathered at Valparaiso University's Harre Union ballroom to discuss significant DEI topics in a safe environment.

Dr. Danny Lackey, Ed.D., of DL Consulting Services and former executive director of student support services for Merrillville Schools, understands the significance of an event like this to differentiate between what does and doesn't classify as DEI. As a member of this year's DEI Symposium Committee, he's emphatic about pointing out misconceptions that can disturb this conversation.
 
"DEI has been responsible for making sure there's a level playing field so that everybody can have access to opportunities based on their merit," Lackey said. "It's not about using merit as the barometer for determining if a person gets a job, but ensuring that each person can be present and considered for a position with their merit."
 
Conversations about DEI can be both difficult and scary for those who are new to the discussion. Many people are fearful of not being fully understood and the potential backlash that comes with it. Lackey admires this space as a way to invite students and adults to a discussion forum that's safe and free of judgment.

Being an outlet that promotes, encourages and enhances the conditions of people is what the Urban League of Northwest Indiana prioritizes in their services. The organization has always strived to make improvements in the social, educational, and economic landscape for everyone they encounter.

"Urban League was organized in 1910 by a black man, George Edmund Haynes, and a white woman, Ruth Standish Baldwin," said Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud, Ed.D., president and CEO of Urban League of Northwest Indiana. "Diversity and inclusion began with our organization. I don't think everybody knows what DEI truly is. It includes your disabled neighbor who only works four hours a day. It includes the Down Syndrome person working in the store. It includes a student who needs extra accommodations to get through elementary, middle, and high school. It's not about ethnicity, but rather an equal opportunity to work without being discriminated against."

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