Vernā Myers’ Post

Check out the latest blog post discussing Ranbir Kapoor's recent revelations about satisfaction and contentment in his acting career. Learn more about his perspectives in the industry. Read the full article here: https://ift.tt/tchlKU8

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And the race row continues! but are we missing something here ? There is a bigger picture. As the race row between Frank Hester and people bubbles over, with him denying his vocal racist remarks. Mr Hester is a business owner in leadership. What we really should be investigating is how many black people he refused jobs in his business, due to his racist behaviour. Which mentally scars an ethnic person for life. How many people of black ethnicity are in his company, due to his bigotry! This is how we can all identify racism at the top of businesses. Because the bigot racist leaders don’t allow black people through their doors. Or they don’t allow them to move up in positions within their businesses. Is this full exposure! #dianeabbott #ukgovernment #racialjustice

Critics say the field of #DEI is ineffective. But that's not what we are hearing from clients. “Objectively, we’ve gotten better because of this work,” says Charles Wehrwein, COO of Housing Partnership Network, a national collaborative of housing and community development organizations. “Our fundraising is up. Our capital placement is up. We're thriving.” I asked HPN’s leadership team to share their story as an example for others—and they were proud to share a journey that grew organically in order to solve specific organizational challenges: 1 - Data. When HPN initially invested in DEI work years ago, their goal was to retain and increase the diversity of their team. Gievaughann Brown, PHR, Sr. Talent & Culture Associate, brought data-driven tools to mitigate bias in every step of the recruitment journey, from job descriptions to sourcing, interviews, and selection. “I've seen the increase in Black and brown people and people of color that have been hired throughout the organization over the years.” 2 - Conversations. This increased diversity led to deeper shifts. “It influences the conversations that we have about the programs and services that we deliver to our members,” says Robin Hughes, who became HPN’s first Black President & CEO in 2022. At a recent meeting of member organizations, participants bravely shared real-life experiences and stressed the importance of centering racial equity in serving their mission. 3 - Skill Building. The staff realized they needed support to overcome discomfort and make actionable change. Sherry Burton, PHR, VP of Talent & Culture, took on this challenge, alongside her colleague Gievaughann. “How do we more formally approach this, outside of just ‘how are we feeling?’” Sherry asked. Fletcher Consulting provided a year-long learning series for the entire organization: clarifying terms, analyzing case studies, and practicing core skills like interrupting bias, sustaining an inclusive culture, and identifying systemic barriers to equity. 4 - Strategy. Now, DEI is deeply integrated into all aspects of the organization. “We are not just checking off a box,” Robin stresses. “It's not just in Talent and Culture—it's in how we procure vendors, how we engage with members, and how they engage with their residents. It’s in our strategic framework and operational plan, where we've given a lot of priority to housing justice and racial equity.” As proud as HPN’s leaders are of the progress and impact of DEI, they are frustrated by the growing backlash in the field. “Our members have experienced waning philanthropic support funding DEI work,” Robin shared. “They also have expressed concerns that commitments made by corporate America aren't being realized.“ But she emphasizes that HPN is an example of why it’s worth persisting. “In terms of our commitment as an organization,” Robin confirms, “I don't see that waning at all. It makes us better as a company. And it's the right thing to do.” https://wix.to/jtB8T1J

Leadership makes THE DIFFERENCE

It's Black Business Month! Drop some recommendations of businesses I should know about!

You cannot create history without first acknowledging those who paved the way. Honoring the work of those who came before me is essential in creating lasting change. Let's be intentional and authentic in our efforts to fill the gap between communities and law enforcement. It's not always easy, but the rewards of creating positive impact are worth it. Let's continue paying it forward. #beintentional #beauthentic #payingitforward

Explore the complexity of Miley Cyrus and dad Billy Ray Cyrus' relationship, following Miley's perceived Grammys acceptance speech snub. Learn more about their dynamic in our latest blog post: https://ift.tt/uh2Yey1

"HOOK UP" Why are we so quick to be critical of black businesses while we are treated like crap (profiled, charged higher prices, sold lesser quality products...) in businesses owned by people of other races? We will go to Nordstrom and buy some clothes made in a sweatshop in China and pay a premium price. However, we will go to a black business and expect a "hook up"!So-called black companies may not have the luxuries of white businesses. We do not get the business loans and resources of businesses owned by other races. With all the businesses I have owned (A Day Spa, Physician Staffing...) My wife and I had to use our family's savings and second-hand furniture and equipment ...to start our businesses. I did not have access to business loans or other financial resources that are available to others. I am a poor man who came from a poor family. Additionally, some black people who worked with me did not give their best efforts. One person who worked with me said, "I am not going to make you rich". It was not about "getting rich"; it was about paying the bills and building a business that all of us could grow and become profitable business people. My point is that, as so-called small black business people, we have many hurdles to overcome that are not self-made. My suggestion to black people is to support black businesses. It is not what you say but how you say it! If you have some criticism of a black business, be respectful. Don't embarrass people. Think of the business owner as if they were your family member when you give criticism. The people you are critical of may be doing the best they can. Perhaps they are learning . However, do not use excuses to go to businesses owned by people of other races. Peace

Check out my latest post sharing the black owned businesses that I adore! #blackhistorymonth #blackfuturesmonth