Our Blog
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.
More Blogs
The Shadow and Light of Femininity in Leadership
While gender is increasingly understood as a spectrum and social construct, the binary framework of masculinity and femininity remains deeply embedded in cultural norms. Traditionally masculine qualities—such as assertiveness, competitiveness, and decisiveness—continue to dominate perceptions of effective leadership. However, these qualities alone are insufficient for the complex challenges of modern leadership, making it essential to examine the shadow and light of both masculine and feminine traits.
Where Do Jews Fit in DEI Conversations?
Where do Jews fit in DEI conversations? This blog explores the complexities of Jewish identity in diversity, equity, and inclusion spaces, challenging assumptions and addressing the erasure of Jewish voices. Through personal reflection and real-life stories, it examines how oversimplifications undermine the core values of DEI and calls for a more inclusive approach that honors all lived experiences. Dive in to uncover how we can evolve the conversation to truly embrace empathy, compassion, and the richness of our collective diversity.
Is It Because I’m … ?
In tense moments, the question “Is it because I’m White?” (or Black, Latino, or Asian) often comes up when race seems to explain what's happening. While race plays a role, it’s usually not the whole story.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Celebrating our Strengths and Building Equity Leadership
Be Strong Families staff and board came together for an in-person retreat October 19 and 20 in Lake County, IL. This is the first in-person staff-board retreat we have held in more than 6 years. The theme was “Be Strong Together: Celebrating our Strengths and Building Equity Leadership.”
Real Talk about Equity and Non-Profit Financial Administration
Be Strong Families has charged itself with doing the work it takes to be an organization that promotes equity in everything we do and as part of who we are. We know that part of equity leadership is consciousness — the value of centering equity, the desire to lead equitably. Part of equity leadership is creating a culture of inclusion and minding how we relate to each other; part of equity leadership is hardwired into policy.
The Equity of the Human Experience
Be Strong Families is an organization focused on building trust. We do this by valuing shared experiences and committing to human-centered practices.