In light of recent events that have caused civil unrest, organization leaders must take the initiative to ensure there’s a better tomorrow, not just for their organizations, members, and communities they serve, but also for the generations to come. As a leader of your organization, whether it’s a professional association, club, or any other type of group, you have the responsibility to uphold high ethical standards.
As the world bands together to fight injustice, there are ways to contribute to the cause. So how can organization leaders help? Briana McDaniel, a member of our success team, is also an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., a historically African American sorority. She offers these tips:
Keep the dialogue open. Don’t stay silent. We must speak up about injustice. Keep the conversation going about how we can all do our part. Many of us have platforms that we can utilize to promote change for the better, and we should do so responsibly. Send emails and texts – not just to members, but to city officials – create posts on social media, publish content on your websites. Getting out there and peacefully protesting is one way to make voices heard, but it’s not the only way. Use the communication channels and tools you have available, including tools on memberplanet.
Practice your code of conduct/ethics/bylaws. Your organization should have a one, or create one, if you don’t. Review it and update if necessary. Remind your members and officers to put it into practice so that your entire organization can stand in solidarity for the values it upholds. This is especially important if you and your members publicly represent your organization or are seen in public, wearing apparel that bears your organization’s logo. During tumultuous times, we must remember the reason we are part of an organization to begin with - whether it’s to be part of that community or to stand behind something that’s greater than oneself. Stay informed and get educated. Modern technology has made a lot of information publicly available. We must be aware that a lot of misinformation, unbased claims, and rumors are also easy to access. It’s critical that you continually review where information is coming from, as well as how stats and data are being used, especially if you’re relaying resources and information to members. Encourage others to get educated as well. Read books, watch shows and films, subscribe to podcasts, and learn about racial equality and justice. Take action. Every one of us has a responsibility to do our part. Racism and social injustice should have no place in our communities, organizations, and nation. Aside from what’s mentioned above, there is so much we can do to start:
As a member of an organization with rich history and high ethical standards, I’m reminded of how important it is to not lose sight of the principles that served as guiding flames to lead us to combat for causes that are bigger than us as individuals.
You may or may not be leading an organization that advocates for social change. Regardless, the way your organization addresses racism (which includes doing nothing to address it) will have an impact on future societies as a whole.
The movement taking place right now is more than a social media campaign or a hashtag, and we have the power to sustain its momentum. In this long-term fight against racism, let’s be committed to leading our organizations to be the change we want to see. About memberplanetWe, as a company, stand in solidarity against racism and support the individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to promote equality, diversity, and community. memberplanet helps leaders manage, engage, and grow their organizations - and it is also our hope that these tools will be used to do what is right.
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