From Dr. Sheila Robinson, Publisher and CEO of Diversity Woman Media
Over the years as publisher of Diversity Woman Media, I have diligently made sure to remain politically neutral. Diversity Woman magazine is focused solely on woman’s leadership development, and Inclusion magazine is focused entirely on diversity, equity, and inclusion. But sometimes, a response to events in the greater world is necessary, because these events impact our readers, not only in their personal lives, but also in their professional lives. Examples include the pandemic and the 2020 murder of George Floyd. In addition, the workplace has shifted, and there is a long overdue acknowledgment to recognize that to do our best job, we need to be able to bring our authentic selves to work every day. And sometimes authenticity takes the shape of providing a safe place to express our feelings – and hopefully, a forum to take action steps to find innovative ways to further expand women’s empowerment.
When the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24th, the news shook the world and transcended work-life boundaries. No matter one’s position on this controversial topic, everyone was impacted and has an opinion.
I believe that one’s position on abortion is personal – Diversity Woman media has no intention of taking a side in this heated debate. That said, for the past 15 years we have been a vocal advocate of women’s empowerment and a woman’s right to make her own choices and decisions. For example, we create content on how a woman can make sure her voice is heard in a meeting and that her ideas and successes are acknowledged.
I would like to suggest that we all take a deep breath and vow to respect others’ positions on this contentious topic. I also would like to suggest that we use the energy and passion for women’s independence and empowerment that have surfaced for the greater good. As we move forward, let us use this moment as a reminder that nothing is written in stone and our life’s mission is to always be fighting and working to ensure that the voices of future generations of girls and women will never be silenced.