Leaders who do not use this moment to examine the racial inequities in their own house or fail to use their power to enact concrete policy or personnel changes will erode trust on their teams, undermine their credibility, and ultimately hasten their own departure

An adapted version of the message I shared with my team following the murder of George Floyd.

Seeking equity? Start with influence.

As the first chapter of the crisis comes to an end, we know that what is to come may further entrench racial inequity. It does not have to be this way. Leaders of color who lead skillfully, with courage, vision, and values, can chart a better path forward. Leadership in color matters now more than ever.

For leaders of color, framing our encounters with racism, bias, and white fragility as ongoing and unique adaptive challenges offers leaders a powerful lens and tool for survival and success. 

Developing and honing your personal narrative is key asset for leaders of color committed to equity.