Inclusive Conversations Quotes

“The typical narrative is that people have to first feel safe before they can be brave. But what if the order was the opposite? What if we create spaces where people can be brave so that we can all eventually feel safe? I am not suggesting that people, particularly those from historically marginalized groups, have to risk being misunderstood, ridiculed, or otherwise outed for people to feel safe. However, I am suggesting that until we address the roots of psychological danger (the opposite of psychological safety) - exclusive mind-sets and policies - by creating spaces in which everyone is encouraged to delve into their own discomfort and learn about who they are, who others are, and how we can be bridges for one another, we will not be able to create sustainably safe spaces.”
― Mary-Frances Winters, Inclusive Conversations: Fostering Equity, Empathy, and Belonging across Differences