DEI Basics
This word means having people from different backgrounds on the same team
What is Diversity?
Instead of saying “you guys,” say this in a meeting.
What is “everyone” / “team” / “y’all”?
The easiest way to include someone quiet in a group is to do this.
What is ask them a question / invite them in?
In a professional email, this is the best way to start.
What is “Hi/Hello (Name),” ?
The phrase “Treat people with kindness” is basically this DEI value.
What is Respect?
This word means making sure everyone feels welcomed and included, not just “there.”
What is Inclusion?
Instead of “calm down,” try this phrase that sounds less aggressive.
What is “let’s take a second” / “let’s pause”
If someone gets interrupted, you can say: “Wait, let ___ finish.”
What is redirecting the conversation?
In meetings, a good habit is saying this at the start so everyone feels included.
What is introductions / quick check-in?
In group projects, the “main character syndrome” problem is fixed by doing this
What is listening / teamwork?
This word means fairness, where people get what they need to succeed (not always the same thing).
What is Equity?
Instead of “Calm down,” try this phrase that won’t start World War 3.
What is “Let’s take a breath” / “Let’s pause for a second”?
If you mess up someone’s name, the best move is to do this.
What is apologize + ask how to say it correctly?
If you disagree with someone in PBL, the best approach is to do this.
What is disagree respectfully? (ex: “I see your point, but…”)
The #1 rule in any group chat before you say something questionable is
What is think before you send?
This means making things usable for everyone (ramps, captions, clear slides, etc.).
What is Accessibility?
Instead of assuming what should you do?
What is ask/asking?
If a teammate seems left out, the best DEI move is to do this after the meeting.
What is check in privately?
This is the best way to handle someone dominating the conversation.
What is bring others in / share the floor?
This sitcom workplace (The Office) would improve instantly if people had more of this.
What is emotional intelligence / respect?
This term means judging someone based on past experiences
What is Bias?
Instead of “no offense, but…,” just do this first.
What is think before you speak (or don’t say it)?
You realize you said something awkward (twinks). The best response is:
What is “my bad — I’ll do better” (apologize & move on)?
You’re attending a PBL event. The most DEI-friendly thing to consider is
What is accessibility/inclusion
It’s not that deep” is the enemy of this skill.
What is empathy?