Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Submitted by Lenore Gallin, DEI committee member
DO UNCONSCIOUS BIASES AFFECT YOUR LIFE?
While it is well known that people do not always speak their minds, exploring implicit or unconscious bias helps us realize that people do not always know their own minds.  Implicit bias refers to the attribution of certain qualities to members of a particular group. Because these biases operate almost entirely on an unconscious level, they are different from prejudices that are intentional and controllable. It is not uncommon for someone to express support for a certain group, behavior, or belief while maintaining the opposite biases on a more unconscious level. Furthermore, implicit biases may not align with the personal identity an individual presents to the public. People can hold positive or negative associations toward their own group and oppose or align themselves with their oppressors or the oppressors of other groups.The phenomenon of colorism or skin tone bias helps us understand how an implicit/unconscious bias for lighter skin affects equity and inclusion in a racially and culturally diverse society. In the aftermath of Black Lives Matter protests, for example, we continue to face the widespread phenomenon of colorism. Unlike racial bias, where individuals of one race oppose members of another race, colorism can be observed among members of the same ethnic or racial group.CNN has weighed in on this issue with a new series called “White Lies,” which investigates skin whitening practices and the industry that profits from colorism. As often happens with implicit/unconscious bias, people fail to recognize the contradictory messages that occur when companies virtue-signaling their commitment to Black and Brown lives are manufacturing and marketing products associating lighter skin with privilege, prosperity, and desirability.Understanding the nature of implicit bias and self-realization promotes meaningful interactions with people of diverse backgrounds and physical characteristics. Opportunities to see others as individuals, not stereotypes, helps to reveal affinities in the differences between people and to build tolerance and understanding through familiarity.  The rewards come in new acquaintances, fresh ideas, more successful problem solving, and the prospect of a more inclusive and equitable world view.We urge everyone to take the Harvard Implicit Association Test by clicking HERE. It is a great first step in recognizing we all have implicit biases.

The State DEI Committee means what it says about the importance of “inclusion!”  The appointment of a Diversity point person in each branch ensures that we hear your voices and enlists your support in AAUW’s bold move to build a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable organization in California.