Newsletter Vol. 4 No. 11 – November 2024

Posted on November 4, 2024March 6, 2025

NAVIGATION

Beyond the Buzzwords: DEI in Your Workplace

by Sarah Audsley

It is now common to use the buzzwords diversity, equity, and inclusion (and the acronym DEI) in the workplace. As a writer and poet, I care about words—their meanings and their impact. I know how powerful language can be to describe, evoke feelings, and transform. Hearing DEI thrown around often makes me cringe. Or, like my dog who jumps at danger, it raises my hackles. Words, statements, and values need to be backed by action and systems to support responsive change. My suspicions on the effectiveness of various DEI “policies” and “values” statements are often confirmed. When I talk to peers who work in majority-White workplaces as the only people of color, I hear how we are hesitant to speak out about issues with DEI efforts. All too often, the organizations we work for fail us in the basic definitions of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In addition, Vermont applauds itself for being a liberal state, but its workplaces are no exception when it comes to misstepping in DEI efforts.

Since we spend most of our lives at work, working, or thinking about work, what is the best way to proceed with DEI—especially, if we care a lot about it? How can we avoid the pitfalls that come with being the only people of color sitting at the table? I never want to be tokenized or used as the “expert in the room” just because I am the only Asian American. Nor am I willing to take on extra work that is labeled DEI without additional compensation because I know this work is often unpaid, and has invisible emotional labor costs. 

Nevertheless, I am willing to take on DEI work because I feel it is an essential part of my personal and professional work. So, I have developed two different checklists that help me, personally, navigate DEI in the workplace. The first is internal—looking inside myself, I test the following statements and proceed if the majority are “yes.”

An internal checklist:

• I have self-care systems in place to deal with the aftermath of difficult conversations.
• I have the emotional capacity and space in my workplace to take on this work.
• I have two or more colleagues within my workplace who I can lean on.
• I trust the majority of my colleagues to support me when I step up or share my feelings around “–isms.”
• I am willing to have tough conversations with the majority of the staff I work with.
• I have self-care systems in place to deal with the aftermath of difficult conversations.

Even with “yes” to a majority of the above statements, before proceeding with DEI work in the workspace, I also do an assessment of the organization. Paying attention to possible points of tension, I test the following statements:

An external checklist:

• The organization has identified and outlined how DEI is a priority. 
• The organization has devoted resources (time, money, and engagement) to DEI work. (I have identified compensation–in time, money, or other options–that feels fair and supportive.)
• Leadership within the organization has demonstrated a commitment to DEI work.
• There is a 360-degree regular review process that feels safe and is supported by clear guidelines.
• The organization has Human Resources (HR) staff who understand DEI and can facilitate difficult conversations.
• There is a process for dialogue and exchange of ideas that is non-hierarchical and not driven by the bottom line.

As one of the few people of color in my workplace, I get to decide how I want to engage with DEI work. What is beyond the buzz? What is real action and impact? Ideally, we would move beyond the buzzwords of diversity, equity, inclusion—feeling and seeing them in action would be automatic, like breathing. We would no longer feel exhausted by this work; instead, we would be uplifted and supported. Hold steady. Check the checklists. Make your own checklists to guide you in your work. We will see the change and the vision we hold dear—I am right there with you.

About the Author

SARAH AUDSLEY is the author of Landlock X (Texas Review Press, 2023). A Korean American adoptee, a graduate of the MFA Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College, and a member of The Starlings Collective, Audsley lives and works in northern Vermont.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

news FROM THE NETWORK

EVENTS

November 4, 18, 25 – Fletcher Free Library Presents: English Classes for Mothers (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
USCRI VT will host mixed English classes for women in one room while having childcare provided in another room.

November 5, 19 – Mandarin Conversation Circle (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Learn or improve your Mandarin and make new friends. Join volunteers from Vermont Chinese School for our new Mandarin Conversation Circle. We meet on the first and third Tuesday of every month in the Community Room. Drop-in. No registration. All are welcome! Email vtchineseschool@gmail.com or sbplprograms@southburlingtonvt.gov, or call the library at 802-846-4140 if you have questions or would like to be added to the email list for this group.

November 5, 12 – Price like a Pro – Introductory Class for Business Owners (4:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
Not sure what you should be charging your customers? Join us for an introductory class on pricing your products and services. This class will include two in-person sessions that will cover the topics listed below. It will be highly hands-on with practical exercises, so get ready to dig into your prices!

November 5 – Fletcher Free Library Presents Equity Matters: Dismantling Systemic Racism (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Because of the legacy of slavery there have always been calls for freedom, equal protection, equal rights, civil rights and EQUITY! Centering Black and Brown communities and with an eye towards racial justice, Equity Matters holds space for some of the most important pressing issues impacting Black folks in Vermont. Equity Matters.

November 6 – CWEVT – How To Write Your Holiday Marketing Emails for End of 2024 (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
Email marketing on average converts 4x higher than social media. And it makes sense why: it takes a heck of a lot more consent and interest to say yes to getting emails from someone than it does to simply follow someone on social and occasionally see their content. But simply just writing emails to your list this holiday season won’t guarantee sales. The emails have to be GOOD. They have to be interesting, honest, exciting, and the hardest part: strategic. In this 90 minute session, Anti-capitalist business coach Emily Eley, will walk you through a 5-10 holiday email sequence with prompts for each email, suggested subject lines & preview text, and a timeline for when to send them.

November 6 – Vermont Womenpreneurs: Biz Buzz Zoom (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Our monthly Vermont Womenpreneurs meet-up, on Wednesday of each month at 10am, serves as an opportunity for women business owners across the state to connect, learn of new opportunities and updates from one another. Register to get Zoom link.

November 6, 13, 20 – ELL Classes: English for Beginners and Intermediate Students (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)
Beginning English-language learners can practice written and spoken English with a certified TOEFL instructor. FREE. Please register for classes by emailing Barbara Shatara at bshatara@burlingtonvt.gov.

November 7 – The Root Social Justice Center: BIPOC Writers Group (5:30 PM – 6:30 PM)
Join us every 1st Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 PM for a special gathering of BIPOC writers to share your work, listen to others, and connect in a safe and inclusive space. Whether you’re working on poetry, fiction, essays, or any other form of writing, this is a space where your voice is valued and celebrated. For more information, contact Adriana at BTN@therootsjc.org.

November 7 – Richard Kemp Center: Youth Safe Space (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
In recognition of the unique experiences, challenges, and strengths of Black individuals, our organization is proud to introduce “Safe Space”, an affinity space initiative. This initiative is designed to provide a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where Black individuals can come together to share common experiences, build relationships, foster community, and promote healing.

November 8, 15, 22 – Dorothy Ailing Memorial Library Presents: Adult Meditation Online (12:00 PM – 12:30 PM)
Take a break from your day to reconnect to your peaceful body and breath. Join us for a short guided meditation session via Zoom. If you would like to join us, please email daml@damlvt.org and we will send you an invitation to the Zoom meeting.

November 8, 15 – Dorothy Ailing Memorial Library Presents: Mah-Jongg (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
Come alone or bring a friend and play with members of the community. All experience levels are welcome. No registration required.

November 8, 22 (Every 2nd and 4th Friday) – Richard Kemp Center: Youth Movie Night (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Youth Movie Night is a community-centered initiative aimed at promoting awareness, understanding, and dialogue on racial justice issues through the medium of film. This program creates a safe and inclusive space where youth from 8 to 18 can come together to watch thought-provoking movies with cultural themes, engage in meaningful discussions, and share food in a welcoming and collaborative environment.

November 8 – UVM Lane Series Presents: Helen Sung (7:30 PM)
Pianist/composer Helen Sung has spent most of her life in two distinct worlds. A classical student from a young age who transitioned to jazz in her early twenties, she understands the limitless range and potential of the piano in a way that few specialists in either genre can. In addition, as the daughter of Chinese immigrants, Sung embodies two diverse cultures and has discovered a musical voice and identity that are true to both – and more importantly, true to herself.

November 9 – 20th Annual Tibet Festival (10:00 AM – 4:30 PM)
The Tibetan Association of Vermont would like to invite you to our 20th Annual Tibet Festival to be held on November 9th at O.N.E. Community Center at 20 Allen Street in Burlington, Vermont. This festival is our chance to share with our neighbors and friend a little of our rich and ancient culture. Together we hope to enjoy with you traditional Tibetan food, crafts, music, and cultural dance performances.

November 9 – Community Flu Vaccine Clinic at the Windsor Welcome Center (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
All PHC clinics are walk-in only, free to all, and there are no registrations required.

November 9, 10 – The 3rd Annual Vermont Steampunk Expo (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Join us for a weekend of Victorian fantasy featuring special guests and panelists, artisans, crafters, and performers from across Vermont and New England. Experience tales of fanciful things and much more! The Expo will include dozens of authors, artists, makers and vendors. Patrons will be able to participate in and enjoy daily panels and workshops as well as musical entertainment and live demonstrations. Everyone is welcome to come in costume (tasteful) but it is not required.

November 9, 16, 23, 30 – Richard Kemp Center: Legal Clinic (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
We’re Promoting racial equity by offering accessible legal support to those who often face systemic barriers within the legal system. Here we empower individuals, protect their civil rights, and offer representation in legal matters where racial discrimination or injustice may be prevalent.

November 9 (11–1 PM), 20 (6–8 PM) – Richard Kemp Center: Front Door – Growing Homes
We’re opening the front door for folks to come and join us in the Growing Homes Initiative. Front Door is a great way to start the journey with us. Here we’ll provide an overview of the initiative and get you introduced to our coaches who will get you started on the journey to learning, growing, healing and economic empowerment! The Growing Homes Initiative aims to support community members with lived experiences of racial trauma. It offers cultural access, community involvement, and guidance on the path to overall wellness, including economic wellness. Phase One (six months) of Growing Homes is the first step in the roll-out of a program targeted at healing and reducing the racial wealth gap, up to and including home and land ownership!

November 9, 23 – Fletcher Free Library Presents: The Poetry Experience with Rajnii Eddins (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
Looking for a fun space to be creative and share poetry? Check out this local writing/sharing circle (held every 2nd and 4th Saturday). The Poetry Experience is hosted by Rajnii Eddins! Please spread the word and feel free to invite poets, writers, teachers, emcees, creative people and arts enthusiasts of all ages.

November 10, 17, 24 – The Four Quarters Kitchen Series: Thingz from Yaad Pop-Up (12:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Introducing The Four Quarters Kitchen Series, where we’ll have a new kitchen pop-up in our taproom every Sunday starting this November thru March. Up first: Thingz from Yaad. 🇯🇲 In Jamaica, “yaad” means home and that’s exactly what Chef Shaneall Ferron brings. Her food is a delicious celebration of Jamaican flavors and beloved staples. 12pm ‘til closing every Sunday in November. Stay tuned for more Sunday pop-ups that feature local Vermont chefs and food trucks!

November 10 – Fletcher Free Library Presents: Dad Guild (3:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Fathers (and parents of all genders) and their kids ages 5 and under drop in for playtime and connection. Ages 0-5. dadguild.weebly.com

November 11 – Culinary Mavericks – A Multi-Course Jamaican Fall Harvest Dinner (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
Join us for an unforgettable evening of bold flavors and culinary fusion at An Authentic Jamaican Fall Harvest Dinner, part of the Culinary Maverick dinner series hosted by Local Maverick in partnership with Cold Hollow Cider Mill. This special event will feature a multi-course meal created by Chef Shaneall Ferron of Thingz From Yaad, blending authentic Jamaican cuisine with the seasonal bounty of Vermont.

November 12, 19, 26 (Every Tuesday) – Richard Kemp Center: Got Chess? (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
The Youth Chess Club is a dynamic and inclusive program designed to empower young individuals from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities through the timeless game of chess. Our program offers a safe and welcoming space where youth can explore the world of chess, cultivate essential life skills, and experience a range of valuable benefits.

November 12 – Racial Disparities in the Criminal and Juvenile Systems Panel (RDAP) on Zoom (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Shela Linton, Executive Director of The Root Social Justice Center is an appointee by the attorney general to The RDAP. She has served on this panel since its creation in 2017 as a Black/BIPOC community member and is helping to bring Most Impacted Voices to the discussion on eliminating racial disparities in the juvenile/DCF and criminal justice systems. This is an open public meeting where everyone is welcome to join. Community participation is encouraged, and if you’d like to speak or add to the discussion, you can do so during the meeting!

November 13 – CWEVT – Wearing Many Hats: Leadership in Your Evolving Role as a Business Owner (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
Do you remember that children’s book Caps for Sale? Are you feeling like you keep having to put on another hat in your business – and you’re already wearing too many? Join your food & beverage business-owning compatriots to explore techniques for keeping you sane as your role transitions in your business. We’ll hit on everything from delegation to leadership 101, plus will give you some time to connect with your fellows. This is a coaching-forward workshop, so plan to connect with your peers and do some reflection. The content in this workshop is designed for folks who are actively operating a food & beverage business and are seeking actionable leadership skills to help level up their operation!

November 14 – 2024 Vermont Statewide Housing Conference
The 2024 Vermont Statewide Housing Conference will be held Thursday, November 14 at the Doubletree in South Burlington. Register now to see the full line up of exciting sessions or check out the schedule-at-a-glance. For over 20 years, the Vermont Statewide Housing Conference has drawn hundreds of Vermonters interested in affordable housing together. This is the only conference that brings together housing professionals from across the state to cover a comprehensive range of topics like housing development, single family financing, affordable housing, housing policy, local planning for housing, homelessness, and other special topics. Note: VT PoC will be hosting an affinity space and a BIPOC listening session during the conference!

November 14 – NEK Together Conference (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
NEK Together is the regional cross-sector event of the year. If you’re an NEKer, this event is for YOU! Let’s come together to make new connections, develop leadership prowess, and take action to make real change.

November 14 – Vermont Womenpreneurs: Biz Buzz Burlington (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Our monthly Burlington Vermont Womenpreneurs meet-up at 10am is an opportunity for women business owners in Chittenden County to connect, learn of new opportunities and updates from one another. Drip coffee will be available. Espresso drinks and food can be purchased on site or pre-ordered from Kestrel Coffee.

November 15 – Richard Kemp Center: Game Night (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
The Game Night is a unique and inclusive community event designed to foster unity, understanding, and celebration of diverse cultures while promoting racial equity and social justice. This is a welcoming space for people from all racial backgrounds to come together, have fun, and engage in meaningful conversations. You can expect Inclusive Games, Cultural Exchange, Racial Justice Discussions, Networking and Building, Community, Food and Refreshments and a Family-Friendly Environment.

November 16 – House Party HUD at the Richard Kemp Center (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
A house party is a one-stop shopping experience for community members who are looking to own a home for the 1st time. Learn about resources available to assist first-time homebuyers, talk with counselors & sign up for first- time homebuyer class, meet with mortgage lenders & get pre-qualified!

November 16 – The Non-Fiction Comics Festival (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
The third annual Non-Fiction Comics Festival at the Fletcher Free Library will feature panel discussions, workshops, and exhibiting cartoonists creating non-fiction and autobiographical work, with special events and workshops throughout the entire weekend!

November 19 – CWEVT – Financing Your Business: Exploring the Options (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Looking to start or grow your business and suspect you need some extra cash to do it – and not sure where it’ll come from? Join CWEVT for this informal conversation that will put the FUN in funding. Together, we’ll explore the spectrum of financing options that might be available as you pursue business financing, from grants to venture capital and everything in between.

November 23 – Shemekia Copeland: Queen of the Blues – Celebration Series (7:30 PM)
Shemekia Copeland possesses one of the most instantly recognizable and deeply soulful roots music voices of our time. The multi-GRAMMY nominee is beloved and honored worldwide for the fearlessness, honesty and humor of her revelatory songs, as well as for her winning, engaging personality. The Chicago Tribune says, “Copeland is the greatest female blues vocalist working today. There’s no mistaking the majesty of her instrument, nor the ferocity of her delivery.”

November 25 – English Conversation Circle (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
Practice your English and make new friends. Join library staff and volunteers for a fun and friendly conversation with other adult English learners. Our English Conversation Circle meets the second and fourth Monday of each month, in the Digital Lab of the South Burlington Public Library. Registration is not required for this program. All are welcome! Email sbplprograms@southburlingtonvt.gov with any questions.

November 29, 30 – Vermont Comedy Club Presents: Jackie Fabulous (7:00 PM, 9:00 PM)
Jackie Fabulous is a stand-up comedian, actress and writer who’s been featured three times on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, America’s Got Talent: All Stars, Showtime’s Flatbush Misdemeanors, The Arsenio Hall Show, HBO’s Pause, That Damn Michael Che and much more. In addition to her television appearances Jackie’s hilarious and affable stand-up can be seen across the country as she tours America’s top comedy clubs. Her hour special “Menoplause” is available now.

December 5 – 2024 Vermont Creative Sector Advocacy Webinar Series: Vermont’s Creative Sector Advocacy Priorities (11:00 AM)
As we approach the start of the 2025 legislative session, learn more about the Vermont Creative Network’s statewide advocacy priorities and find out how you can help ensure state representatives and senators understand the importance of Vermont’s creative economy.

December 9 – 2024 Vermont Creative Sector Advocacy Webinar Series: Changes Impacting Creative Businesses and Nonprofits (11:00 AM)
Join a panel of experts to learn more about new state and federal laws, regulations, and opportunities that may impact your creative business or nonprofit, such as the Vermont Saves retirement program, salary requirements for job listings, and changes to exempt employee status.

FUNDING & GRANTS

Community Action Team
The Vermont Community Action Teams (CATs) are groups of employees at each of Ben & Jerry’s three Vermont manufacturing and office facilities. They offer general or project support within the broad guidelines and funding provided by the Ben & Jerry’s Foundation. Applications are reviewed monthly.

Vermont Arts Council Creative Aging Grant
Creative Aging grants support skill-based instruction alongside opportunities for social engagement and community building in and through the arts for older adults. Applicants to the Creative Aging grant program are non-profits with 501(c)(3) status, such as arts organizations, area agencie

USDA Small Business Cost Share Program
Funds are available for businesses through the USDA Small Business Cost Share Program. Businesses with fewer than 50 employees and gross profit under $1,000,000 are eligible. Grants can cover as much as 70% of the project cost with the business cost-share component at 30%. For more information, please contact Annie McLean at amclean@nvda.net.

Awesome Grant
Have a crazy brilliant idea that needs funding? We award $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler! Your idea is yours alone. We don’t want a stake in it. We just want to help you make it happen! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Skip Monthly Grants
Have a crazy brilliant idea that needs funding? We award $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler! Your idea is yours alone. Looking for grants to fuel your business or passion? Skip’s grants are now bigger and better than ever. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

The BIPOC Artist Exchange and Activation Initiative
The BIPOC Artist Exchange and Activation Initiative is designed to showcase the contributions of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) artists to the New England art community. This program empowers BIPOC artists in New Hampshire and New England, inspiring local BIPOC artists by introducing them to artists from outside our community. Applications will be accepted until funds are exhausted.

Social Equity: Vermont Cannabis Control Board
Individuals that have been determined to meet social equity status by the Vermont Cannabis Control Board may be eligible to receive a beneficiary payment from this program. Eligible applicants must have completed the intake process with Roads Consulting, the state’s provider of cannabis business technical assistance. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Flood Recovery Rebates for Residents
Qualifying low- and moderate-income Vermont homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $29,500 per household to replace flood-damaged appliances and equipment. Damage must have occurred between July 10 – July 31, 2023 (or July 10 – August 10 for residents of Addison County). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Flood Recovery Rebates for Businesses
Businesses whose heating, cooling, refrigeration, or commercial kitchen equipment was damaged by recent floods can receive a flood recovery rebate of 100% of costs up to $4,000 per product for up to four products, in addition to standard offers. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Vermont Arts Council Artist Development Grant
Artist Development Grants support Vermont artists at all stages of their careers. Grants can fund activities that enhance mastery of an artist’s craft or skills or that increase the viability of an artist’s business. Funding may also support aspects of the creation of new work when the activity allows the grantee to accept a rare and important opportunity. Currently closed — a new round will open in November with a deadline of Jan. 28, 2025.

Bizee’s Entrepreneur Grant
Are you a student? This grant is for you! You’ve got big ideas, and we want to turn them into a reality. One young scholar with entrepreneurial spirit will receive $2,500 to continue their education. Application date coming soon.

Bizee’s Fresh Start Business Grant
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start or grow your business? This grant is for you! Whether you’re starting over or starting from scratch, Bizee wants to be there to help your business succeed. One adult entrepreneur will receive $2,500 to put toward business startup costs and will also receive free formation services from Bizee. Application date coming soon.

NEWS

Vermont’s population ticked upward in 2023 — but only slightly
The state’s population grew older too. An uptick in 25- to 55-year-olds was offset by its older population growing even older while births declined.

Green Mountain Transit will start bus service cuts in December
The first round of service reductions are mostly to weekend operations and unsustainable commuter lines to make the service more cost-effective.

FEMA extends aid deadline for Vermonters affected by early July storm
Residents impacted by the July 9-11 storm now have until Nov. 25 to apply for federal assistance.

Vermont’s minimum wage is about to surpass $14
Vermont adjusts the state minimum wage and tipped minimum wage each January by law.