Welcome to Communicate Like You Give A Damn, where we dive deep into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and explore how communicators can effectively incorporate these principles into their strategies. We firmly believe that by positioning our companies well on social justice topics and adopting a DEI lens, we play a crucial role in the success of DEI initiatives within our organizations. Your host, Kim Clark is not only a dynamic speaker and consultant but also a co-author of the Amazon number one bestseller, "The Conscious Communicator: The Fine Art of Not Saying Stupid Shit." While the title may make you think there will be plenty of swearing, it actually reflects our passion for helping communicators understand and apply diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles in their daily work. Language, communication, engagement, and a compelling vision are the foundation of DEI, and that's what we'll be focusing on. It's time to move beyond performative communication and level up our approach to truly make a difference...
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episode 44: Lessons In Communication And Authenticity With Mercy A. Quaye
On this episode of Communicate Like You Give A Damn, host, Kim Clark, continues her conversation with founder of The Narrative Project, Mercy A. Quaye. Together, they dive even deeper into the ever-evolving landscape of DEI communication strategies. Beginning with reflections on the challenging start to 2024, marked by headlines questioning the validity of DEI efforts, they explore the necessity of authentic communication in navigating the DEI narrative. From the co-opting of language to the importance of understanding communities, they dissect the complexities of DEI discourse and its implications on society and the workplace. Drawing parallels to historical movements like the Fugitive Slave Act, they shed light on the recurring patterns of divisive rhetoric and the imperative of standing firm against it. Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, Mercy and Kim offer a compelling case for embracing authenticity and empathy in communication, advocating for a more just and inclusive future.
About The Guest:
Mercy boasts over a decade-long career spanning journalism, communications, and public relations in New Haven and statewide, culminating in the establishment of The Narrative Project, aimed at providing top-tier communications solutions for socially impactful organizations. Transitioning from traditional journalism, she delved into mission-oriented communication roles within the public and non-profit sectors, advocating for equitable education and undocumented students' rights. Holding key positions like Managing Director of External Affairs with Educators for Excellence and Director of Communications with New Haven Public Schools, Mercy's work underscores her commitment to effecting positive social change through collaboration and amplifying underrepresented narratives, influenced by her upbringing in West River, a community marked by opportunity disparities. Her multifaceted background, from navigating various faiths to engaging in outdoor pursuits and advocating for social justice, informs her unique perspective. Additionally, she serves as a digital journalism professor at Southern Connecticut State University and remains active in professional journalism organizations. Mercy earned her Bachelors in Journalism and Masters in Public Relations from Quinnipiac University.
Find Mercy Here:
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About Kim:
Kim Clark (she/her) focuses her work on the communicator and content creator's role in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She is the co-author of The Conscious Communicator: The fine art of not saying stupid sh*t, an Amazon #1 bestseller and the leading voice for DEI communications and social justice messaging for brands.
She speaks at conferences, writes custom workshops, writes inclusive communications guides, and consults with companies on all things related to diversity, equity, and inclusion communications. Kim is a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a cisgender woman, Native American (Muscogee Nation) and a mom of two kids with disabilities. These marginalized identities and the privileges that come with society seeing her as White motivate her daily for social change.
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