Project Report - University of Michigan
In the Spring of 2023, Ciarra Jones Consulting, LLC, conducted a transformative workshop titled "Grief and Workplace Inclusion" for the University of Michigan. This workshop aimed to address the ongoing impact of various external and systemic factors on employee well-being and inclusion.
Workshop Details:
Objective: To explore and navigate the ongoing grief arising from events such as COVID-19, vicarious trauma, anti-Blackness, and systemic inequality, and to guide workplaces in considering these factors for fostering employee inclusion.
Target Audience: University of Michigan, Black Employee Resource Group
Participants: About 40 attendees.
Feedback: 8 employees filled out the feedback form and all respondees rated this talk a 5/5. The organizer noted that this workshop inspired and sparked new conversations that enabled U of M to shape its ongoing DEI work. Below are some notable quotes:
“Ciarra created a space for many people at the University to be seen. I think for a while, our membership was feeling the exact opposite of that, alongside structures that were not made to handle the massive weight that employees of color are bearing in and outside of work. Being able to connect with one another in a comfortable and safe space allowed for honest reflection and introspection that we can start integrating into not only our meetings but suggestions to the school at large.”
“Ciarra's energy really keeps people involved and allows for a naturally open space. Really thankful for the work that she does for organizations.”
“Thank you for the important and needed work you are doing. Your presentation today was informative and timely. Much loss and trauma to process; it's relentless.”
Content Highlights:
Understanding Ongoing Grief:
Addressed the nuanced and prolonged impact of grief stemming from global events, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts like Israel/Palestine, global unrest and more.
Systemic Impact on Inclusion:
Explored how external and systemic factors, including those beyond the workplace, can significantly influence employee well-being and inclusion.
Encouraged participants to consider the broader socio-political context and its impact on individual and collective grief experiences.
Grief as an Equity Lens:
Invited organizations to view grief through an equity lens, recognizing that certain groups may be disproportionately affected by external events.
Emphasized the importance of acknowledging diverse grief experiences and fostering a supportive environment for all employees.
Expanding Organizational Policies:
Urged organizations to consider expanding organizational policies, particularly in areas like bereavement, to address the unique challenges presented by ongoing and collective grief.
Provided insights into developing policies that are responsive to the evolving needs of employees during challenging times.
Implementation Approach:
Safe and Inclusive Space: Created a safe and inclusive space for participants to share their experiences and perspectives on grief.
Interactive Discussions: Facilitated interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises to encourage active engagement and learning.
Equity-Centered Approach: Incorporated an equity-centered approach to foster a deeper understanding of the intersectionality of grief and its impact on workplace inclusion.
Outcomes:
Increased Awareness: Participants gained a heightened awareness of the ongoing grief stemming from global events and its potential impact on workplace dynamics.
Equity Considerations: Organizations were encouraged to view grief through an equity lens, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic workplace.
Policy Recommendations: Insights provided prompted discussions around expanding organizational policies, particularly in areas related to bereavement, to better support employees during challenging times.
Conclusion: Ciarra Jones Consulting, LLC's "Grief and Workplace Inclusion" workshop for the University of Michigan successfully addressed the ongoing grief associated with global events and systemic inequality, offering valuable insights and practical considerations for organizations to enhance employee inclusion and well-being. The workshop's emphasis on an equity lens and policy recommendations reflects a commitment to creating workplaces that prioritize compassion and understanding in times of collective grief.
