News
November 18th, 2024
Reflections on the 2024 Diversity Consortium of Tompkins County Roundtable: Navigating the Backlash to Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Community Foundation is proud to continue sponsor the DCTC Roundtable.
On October 17, 2024, the Diversity Consortium of Tompkins County (DCTC) hosted its annual Roundtable Event at Ithaca College, gathering thought leaders, advocates, and changemakers to confront one of the most pressing challenges of our time: navigating the backlash to equity, inclusion, and belonging. As someone who work in DEI representing the Community Foundation of Tompkins County, I left the event inspired and deeply committed to advancing the collective work of fostering a more inclusive and equitable community.
This year’s theme could not have been more timely. Across sectors, DEI initiatives face heightened scrutiny and resistance, making it crucial for professionals and organizations to stand firm in their commitment to justice and inclusivity. DCTC provided a much-needed space for meaningful dialogue, resource-sharing, and strategy-building, allowing us to address these challenges head-on with both courage and empathy.
The event featured dynamic panel discussions, workshops, and keynote speakers who offered practical insights into maintaining momentum in the face of resistance. One particularly powerful session explored how to build organizational resilience by reframing backlash as an opportunity for growth and engagement. As DEI professionals, these tools are invaluable as we navigate complex societal and institutional dynamics. And of course…my favorite part…Dr. Nia Nunn’s keynote on ‘Radical Vulnerability’ where we were taken on a journey through her childhood while reflecting on our own identities.
Beyond its rich content, the Roundtable underscored why the Diversity Consortium of Tompkins County is such an essential resource for our community. DCTC consistently provides a platform for collaboration, bringing together leaders across industries to share best practices, foster innovation, and cultivate solidarity. Their work ensures that no one in the fight for equity and belonging feels isolated.
At the Community Foundation, we deeply value our partnership with DCTC, recognizing their role in strengthening the fabric of Tompkins County. Events like this reaffirm our shared mission to empower all voices, break down systemic barriers, and create spaces where everyone can thrive.
The 2024 Roundtable was not just an event; it was a call to action. It reminded us that while the road to equity is fraught with challenges, it is also paved with opportunity, collaboration, and hope. Together, with DCTC at the forefront, we can navigate the backlash and build a future that truly belongs to everyone.
Written by Gloria Coicou, Chief Equity, Engagement, & Grants Officer