Belonging 2021
Flagstar virtually hosted its third annual DE&I symposium with the theme, "Belonging 2021". This companywide event served to update employees about our DE&I progress, provide experts to further enhance our overall cultural education and awareness, and support our colleagues as they shared their own experiences. In addition, the symposium wove belonging into each segment, including the power of belonging, what belonging looks like in action, and how belonging is vital to individuals and the success of an organization.
Throughout the symposium, employees enjoyed music from Los Ciegos Del Barrio, an all blind multi-genre Latin American music group from New York City.
Los Ciegos Del Barrio at Belonging 2021
Our three keynote speakers shared what creating a sense of belonging looks like in action.
Dr. Lee Meadows, President, Michigan Chapter, National Association of African Americans in Human Resources: The Power of Belonging
Dr. Meadows spoke about how power and strength reside in recognizing that we are all part of the same experience, even though we may look, act, or think differently. When someone feels they belong to a group, they have a sense of purpose and rejuvenation. Creating this experience within an organization drives our ability to function, profit, and thrive.
Andres Tapia, Korn Ferry Senior Partner/Global Diversity & Inclusion Strategist: The Inclusive Leader
The journey of inclusive leadership is a holistic topic. It impacts team members as well as customers, suppliers, communities, and the world at large. When we realize how multi-dimensional we all are, the importance of inclusivity becomes clear. Creating space for everyone differentiates an organization and leads to growth in all aspects.
Kim Becking, Change & Resilience Expert: Build a Momentum Mindset: ROCK Your Change, Boost Resilience, and Bounce FORWARD
Change is inevitable, so how will you choose to react to it? Ms. Becking reminded us that we have the power to decide how we will use each of the 1,440 minutes in each day. Life is to be lived, not controlled, so she recommends being adaptable and flexible because letting go changes everything. She also said to congratulate yourself and focus on what you are instead of what you are not.
In addition to the keynote speakers, Flagstar associates spoke about how they have demonstrated belonging in action and why an inclusive environment is essential to the workplace and community.
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