The Equity Mindset

6Are Your People S.A.F.E.?

At the core of an equity mindset is how we maximize safety for those denied access to it. Almost all organizations desire safety for their team members, but until safety is achieved, it is just an intention. By recognizing that lack of safety has a ripple effect on other aspects of security, increasing safety increases the chances one will not only be satisfied while working, but one may successfully move from just trying to survive to actually thriving within their organization and beyond. The creation of safety practices fills the gap between the desire of an organization and the actual experience of a safe environment. A safe environment is not an environment absent of harm, but one that is intentional about acknowledging it, addressing it, and being flexible to explore alternatives when existing solutions are no longer serving the culture. Safety, like equity, is thus more of a process, not a set of static tools and offerings. And it starts with an assessment of key considerations:

Are the people in your culture S.A.F.E.?

Seen holistically

Access to support

Free to be in, and address, conflict

Encouraged and radically affirmed

Seen Holistically

Let me share a real scenario between a former consultant and I who was underperforming. Let’s call her “Kelsey”:

Me:

Hey Kelsey, so I see that there's been improvement since the last time we checked in. My files feel way more organized and accessible—thank you. I'm still having some issues with the ...