Aula 01 - Porque falar de Diversidade?

Summary

In this thought-provoking presentation, Gisele Miller, founder of a consulting firm, explores the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in 2025. She reflects on the evolution of communication, from the 1990s’ limited access to information to today’s world of social media and smartphones, which have empowered marginalized groups, including women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. Gisele emphasizes how social movements like Black Lives Matter and MeToo have amplified voices, driving social and workplace change. She concludes by highlighting the tangible benefits of diversity, from better performance to improved organizational outcomes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are critical topics to discuss in 2025 for both ethical and business reasons.
• 😀 Diversity and inclusion are not just the right thing to do, they can have significant positive impacts on company performance, such as improved decision-making and higher employee engagement.
• 😀 In the 1990s, communication was limited to slower methods like TV, landline phones, and letters, which restricted access to real-time information and diverse perspectives.
• 😀 The rise of the internet and social media in the 2010s revolutionized communication, allowing marginalized groups to find representation and access new opportunities.
• 😀 Social movements like Black Lives Matter and #MeToo have gained massive momentum thanks to modern communication, leading to tangible societal and legal changes.
• 😀 Historically, leadership roles were predominantly held by white men, and women, especially in the 1990s, were often confined to caregiving and support roles.
• 😀 Women, especially in leadership positions, lacked representation in the 1990s, but with the advent of the internet, women began connecting and realizing their potential to lead.
• 😀 Movements such as Black Lives Matter grew exponentially in the 2010s, with 26 million people participating in protests for racial equality during the pandemic.
• 😀 The case of Ângela Diniz in Brazil in the 1970s illustrates how society justified violence against women with flawed legal arguments like 'honor', leading to advocacy for stronger laws and movements against gender violence.
• 😀 Inclusive leadership and diverse teams in companies lead to better outcomes, with research showing a 70% improvement in employee experience, 17% higher performance, and 20% better decision-making.
• 😀 Companies and organizations are increasingly pressured to promote diversity, and leaders are recognizing that it’s not just ethical but also beneficial for business success.

Q & A

Why is diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging an important topic to discuss in 2025?

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are essential to discuss in 2025 because they promote fairness, justice, and a more inclusive society. These discussions are not only about doing what’s right but also bring tangible benefits to organizations, such as better team performance and increased financial success.

How did communication change from the 1990s to the 2010s?

In the 1990s, communication was mainly through analog means like TV, letters, and fax machines. Information was not instantly available, and curating news took time. By the 2010s, the advent of the internet and social media revolutionized communication, giving people immediate access to a global flow of information from their phones.

What was the impact of the internet and social media on access to leadership opportunities for women?

The internet and social media allowed women to connect globally, see other women in leadership roles, and realize that such positions were accessible to them. It broke down the barriers that previously kept women out of leadership roles by enabling easier communication and creating a broader, more inclusive platform.

How did societal views on leadership and women's roles change from the 1990s to the 2010s?

In the 1990s, women were often excluded from leadership roles and were seen in support roles such as secretaries or caretakers. However, by the 2010s, societal views shifted as more women entered leadership positions, challenging traditional gender roles and inspiring others to pursue similar paths.

What examples from history illustrate the struggle for social justice and inclusion?

Historical movements like the Black Panther Party in the 1960s, advocating for rights of Black people, and the #MeToo movement in the 2010s, highlighting the prevalence of sexual harassment, showcase the ongoing struggle for justice. These movements have gained strength and visibility, especially with the help of social media.

What was the significance of the ‘legitimate defense of honor’ argument in the Angela Diniz case?

The use of the 'legitimate defense of honor' in the Angela Diniz case, where her murderer’s sentence was reduced based on this argument, highlighted the societal normalization of gender violence. This argument was only eliminated in 2024, showing a long-delayed legal recognition of women's rights and justice.

How did the #MeToo movement impact workplace laws and attitudes toward harassment?

The #MeToo movement, which gained momentum in 2017 and 2018, led to significant legal and cultural shifts. Many men in positions of power were removed due to accusations of sexual harassment. It also prompted new workplace policies, including laws requiring employers to address sexual and moral harassment, contributing to safer and more inclusive environments.

How do inclusive leadership practices affect workplace outcomes?

Inclusive leadership practices positively impact the workplace by fostering a sense of belonging, justice, and respect. Studies show that teams with inclusive leadership experience higher performance, better decision-making, and improved collaboration, all of which contribute to overall organizational success.

Why is it important to continue advocating for diversity and inclusion in the workplace?

It’s crucial to continue advocating for diversity and inclusion because it not only benefits individuals but also leads to improved company performance. Inclusive workplaces attract and retain talent from diverse backgrounds, which leads to innovation, higher productivity, and ultimately, better financial results.

How does diversity in leadership influence organizational success?

Diversity in leadership brings varied perspectives, which enhances decision-making and problem-solving. Organizations with diverse leadership teams perform better, exhibit higher collaboration, and make more informed decisions. These factors collectively improve business outcomes, making diversity a key factor in organizational success.