In her blog Reproducing Marginality Maha Bali points out the importance of being “present” when online, especially when facilitating. This presence she describes is more than appearing to lead the discussion. She advocates that we must not give up, but use, our power as facilitators. Bali includes “it is insufficient to just open up an invitation” and “leave guests to their own devices”—that we need to construct inclusiveness. And, to make sure we do our part (and not forget) to make others feel part of the group, Bali said we need to surround ourselves “with people who can call us out on this gently and constructively.”
Bali lists some of the ways in we should avoid reproducing marginality in things we do. She provides definitions for each. She mentions Tokenizing, Assuming Difference, Assuming Similarity, Unintentional Forgetting, Not Listening to the Marginal, and Silencing the Marginal.
It is everyone’s responsibility to listen and care and support marginal voices. Whether or not they wish to speak. Whether or not they wish to be present. Whether or not they like what we do. It is everyone’s responsibility to recognize their own privilege and to use it with purpose.
Maha Bali
Her blog is a 7 minutes read. I reflected on her words and learned. I invite you to take a peek and see what you can find that will help your leadership and conversations.