In recognition of Inclusion Week, we’re excited to share five simple but impactful acts of inclusion that you can easily incorporate into your daily interactions. Each of these small, intentional actions is designed to foster a more inclusive environment. The goal is to inspire you to actively create a culture of difference where everyone feels empowered and appreciated.

Inclusion isn’t just about a single week – it’s a continuous effort. Here’s how you can start:

Monday: Pull in Underheard Voices

Inclusion starts by actively engaging those who haven’t had the chance to share their thoughts in discussions or those who might not always speak up. In class discussions, group projects, or casual conversations, ask: “Would you like to share your perspective on this?” or “How would you approach this idea?” Creating space for everyone to share their ideas ensures all voices are heard, considered, and valued.

By pulling in underheard voices into the conversation, we empower everyone to contribute. This small but powerful act fosters collaboration, builds trust, and creates a more inclusive environment where all ideas are respected, leading to richer discussions and more creative solutions.

Tuesday: Get Names Right

Today, let’s be intentional about getting names right! It’s a simple way to show respect and care for your classmates. Take the time to learn and pronounce their names correctly. Use their preferred names consistently. If you’re not sure, just ask politely! It’s totally okay to ask and practicing shows that you value them.

Getting someone’s name right is a small but significant way to show you see, value and respect them for who they are. This simple gesture can go a long way in making everyone feel included.

Wednesday: Acknowledge Contributions

Let’s shine a light on everyone’s efforts – no matter how big or small – and make them feel valued! Whether you’re in class, collaborating on a group project, chatting with friends, or sending emails, make sure you’re giving recognition for ideas and efforts where it’s due. Saying something like, “That’s a great point!” can make someone feel appreciated.

Acknowledging people’s contributions openly builds a culture of appreciation and positivity. Plus, it helps everyone feel like their ideas are valued.

Thursday: Share Resources and Normalize Challenges

Facing a new task, project, or subject can be overwhelming. One way to support each other is by sharing helpful resources, tools, advice, or quick tips that made things easier for you when you faced similar challenges. Offering help and sharing your experiences not only makes others feel supported, but also empowers them to ask for help, and fosters a sense of community.

Creating a culture of shared resources and normalized challenges fosters empathy, collaboration, and inclusion. It shows that it’s okay to struggle, and it’s okay to ask for help.

Friday: Circle Back and Create Space in Conversations

As Inclusion Week draws to a close, let’s ensure everyone has the opportunity to be heard. If someone is interrupted, make sure to circle back and give them space to finish their thoughts. A simple “I think [name] had a good point – let’s hear the rest of it” makes a big difference in keeping the conversation inclusive. It’s also okay to pass if they don’t have anything to add.

Circling back and creating space for everyone to speak shows respect and helps everyone feel that their contributions matter. This fosters better teamwork and collaboration.

And that’s a wrap for Inclusion Week!

Here’s a quick recap of the five acts of inclusion you can try:

• Monday: Pull in Underheard Voices
• Tuesday: Get Names Right
• Wednesday: Acknowledge Contributions
• Thursday: Share Resources and Normalize Challenges
• Friday: Circle Back and Create Space in Conversations

Remember, even small actions can have a huge impact!

While Inclusion Week provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on how we can be more inclusive, true change happens when we make inclusion a consistent, ongoing practice. Inclusion Week is just the beginning. Let’s commit to making inclusion a consistent, intentional practice—one day at a time, no matter the time of year.

These practical tips were shared by Robyn Penner Thiessen, a DEI consultant passionate about creating more inclusive workplaces and specializing in helping leaders develop the skills and strategies to lead inclusively. Learn more at robynpennerthiessen.com or by reaching out at robyn@robynpennerthiessen.com.