Season 5 Episode #13: My Conversation with DEI Program Trainer Shay Marlowe

Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh Edmunds

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When Shay Marlowe's high school engagement with the Special Olympics blossomed into a lifelong dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, it set him on a transformative career path. Now, as a DEI training specialist with the Minnesota Child Welfare Training Academy, Shea joins us to share his compelling narrative and the tangible impact of DEI efforts within communities and the workplace. We kick off with a heartfelt recollection of our encounter at the Duluth Thrives Summit, tracing Shea's journey from a Racial Ethnic Student Aid at Michigan State University to combating employment barriers for marginalized groups.
Navigating the labyrinth of our own identities and biases requires a mirror that reflects our true selves. In our discussion centered on the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI), Shea and I invite listeners to embrace the feedback from this eye-opening assessment, not as a judgment, but as a catalyst for personal growth. We unpack the nuances of identity and the conscious effort needed to mitigate unconscious biases. By acknowledging the shades of gray in our understanding and taking intentional strides towards inclusivity, we underscore how self-awareness can pave the way for a more cohesive society.
Finally, we take you on a cultural odyssey, celebrating the unique stories that weave the fabric of our identities. I share my own experiences of relocating from New Jersey to Georgia, a move that coincided with the state's cultural self-examination. We dissect the subtleties of Southern hospitality and dig into the strategies that can create a true sense of belonging in educational environments. From the profound impact of correctly pronouncing a student's name to the significance of recognizing their individual stories, Shea and I reveal how these acts of acknowledgment can foster an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued. Join us for an inspiring exploration into the heart of diversity, identity, and inclusion.

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Chapter

1. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Minnesota (00:00:03)

2. Understanding and Embracing Diversity (00:12:21)

3. Cultural and Personal Identity Exploration (00:15:33)

4. Strategies for Inclusivity and Belonging (00:23:30)