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Get plugged into the latest Be Strong Families news, initiatives, and blog articles — all central to creating transformative conversations that nurture the spirit of family, promote well-being and prevent violence.


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Beyond Words: Embodied Practices for Real DEI and Racial Equity
Social Justice Kathryn Goetz Social Justice Kathryn Goetz

Beyond Words: Embodied Practices for Real DEI and Racial Equity

In recent years, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has become a focal point in workplaces, schools, and communities across the nation. But for DEI and racial equity to truly succeed, it’s essential to go beyond conversations and implement practices that support healing and embodiment. Why? Because the stress of racism and discord impacts everyone’s health—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

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Making America Great with DEI: Liberty and Justice for All
Social Justice Kathryn Goetz Social Justice Kathryn Goetz

Making America Great with DEI: Liberty and Justice for All

How do we reclaim DEI’s true purpose? By starting with ourselves—cultivating compassion, creating brave spaces, and leading with love. DEI isn't a zero-sum game; it's a pathway to harmony and justice for everyone. Be Strong Families envisions a world where communities thrive in interdependence and peace, leaving a legacy of equity for generations to come.

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Racial Equity and DEI Work: A Dozen Dynamics that Hinder Collaboration
Social Justice Kathryn Goetz Social Justice Kathryn Goetz

Racial Equity and DEI Work: A Dozen Dynamics that Hinder Collaboration

In the journey toward meaningful racial equity and DEI, a series of challenging dynamics often arises, complicating true collaboration. This blog explores a dozen issues that hinder progress, from essentializing stereotypes to the double standards surrounding allyship, trust, and responsibility in anti-racist work. The blog’s author, writing from a perspective labeled “white,” sheds light on these paradoxes, emphasizing how both structural and emotional barriers can obstruct genuine change.

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Navigating Whiteness as an Ally and a Leader: Reflections on Identity, Privilege, Behavior, and Intent
Social Justice Guest User Social Justice Guest User

Navigating Whiteness as an Ally and a Leader: Reflections on Identity, Privilege, Behavior, and Intent

Navigating leadership and allyship involves more than simply acknowledging privilege—it requires intentional action. This reflection delves into the complexities of racial equity and how positionality impacts leadership roles. Privilege, while important to recognize, doesn't inherently shift power dynamics. It’s through behavior that meaningful change occurs. Effective allyship focuses on active listening, deferring to lived expertise, and avoiding the tendency to center oneself in diverse spaces. By prioritizing humility and collaboration, leaders can move beyond performative allyship to create more equitable, inclusive environments that uplift marginalized voices.

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LGBTQIA+ Initiative Progress Update
Social Justice Guest User Social Justice Guest User

LGBTQIA+ Initiative Progress Update

We made promises as part of our annual Show Your Love for Families fundraising campaign last December and we are working hard to fulfill them. Consistent with our commitment to racial equity and EDI and in response to requests from partners for resources to assist in meeting the needs of LGBTQIA+ BIPOC families, we said we would partner with people with lived experiences and experts in LGBTQIA+ organizations to expand our products and services. There are three main areas we’ve been working on…

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Illinois Youth Summit on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion
Social Justice Di Yin Social Justice Di Yin

Illinois Youth Summit on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion

Illinois YAB was created by statute to give youth ages 14-21 in the care of IDCFS the opportunity to provide feedback on service delivery, programs, and policies that affect them, toward ensuring that all youth are optimally cared for and supported regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, ancestry, language, handicap/disability, or religion. Illinois YAB is committed to youth empowerment, development, leadership, and achievement.

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