Creating a Culture of Inclusivity

Exactly two years ago, I embarked on a journey, leaving the welcoming community of Iowa City for a new chapter in Des Moines. In those initial months, I found myself grappling with a deep yearning for the sense of belonging I had left behind. The Polk County workplace, where I began my professional journey, initially felt like uncharted territory, leaving me feeling isolated and out of sync. It took over a year before I could authentically claim my place within the organization. The lingering question echoed: Why did this sense of alienation persist?

Through careful observation and interaction with various departments, the answer became undeniably clear—communication.

I'm not talking about the grand announcements or significant policy changes; it's the everyday, fundamental communication that shapes our sense of belonging. As I sat in my office on that first day, I longed not just to be present but to be heard and acknowledged. Recognition and validation became more than mere desires; they became essential to my professional and personal well-being.

Despite the discomfort of not feeling fully woven into the organizational fabric, my determination to contribute to positive change remained unwavering. As a Diversity, Inclusion, and Organizational Development Specialist, I reflected on the impact of this disconnection, not only on my own growth but on the potential hindrance it posed to others in the organization. This contemplation ignited a quest for improvement.

In my pursuit of change, I initiated the following transformative measures as part of my HealthConnect Fellowship and county role:

Building Bridges of Understanding

I founded the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Committee, a space where insights flowed from individuals across departments, collectively envisioning the potential of belonging within our organization. This committee became more than just a meeting room; it evolved into a sanctuary for open dialogue, where authenticity thrived. We courageously tackled uncomfortable conversations, such as addressing microaggressions. Through this, we cultivated a culture that not only acknowledged but actively addressed issues faced by employees and community members, fostering a true sense of inclusivity.

Breaking Down Barriers

Our committee's ethos extended beyond its physical confines. We worked diligently to dismantle silos within the county, organizing events that facilitated cross-departmental and cross-background engagement. Simple, meaningful communication allowed us to see each employee as a multifaceted individual, breaking down unintentional barriers and embracing a unified organizational identity. Every event became an opportunity for employees to engage, fostering conversations about the event's themes and allowing a rich tapestry of perspectives to unfold, enriching the cultural fabric of the organization.

Amplifying Employee Voices

Recognizing the importance of feedback, we recently conducted a Belonging survey, capturing a wealth of employee perspectives on belonging, authenticity, and equity within the organization. The feedback, diverse and plentiful, serves as a testament to the myriad voices shaping our collective journey toward a more inclusive culture. From this, we've learned to focus on what truly matters to our employees, igniting a renewed interest in leadership actively seeking insights into what they're doing well and where they can improve. The rollout of the HR Insight Report has opened doors to collaboration, with offices eager to understand their individual reports and collaboratively work towards growth.

Empowering Through Resources

For those eager to delve deeper into how employee feedback guides our belonging efforts at the county, feel free to reach out to me at keshia.fields@polkcountyiowa.gov.

In cultivating a culture of inclusivity, it's not just about policies and programs—it's about the human connection. It's about acknowledging each individual's unique story, providing a space for their voices to be heard, and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. Together, let us continue this journey towards a workplace that not only embraces diversity but celebrates the richness it brings to our shared experience.