Summary: Barbra Streisand, an iconic figure in the entertainment industry, shed light on this crucial topic during her acceptance speech at the SAG-AFTA (American Film and Television Awards). Streisand’s words resonated far beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, emphasizing the transformative impact that diversity can have on society as a whole.
Dear Dr. Sylvia,
Our diversity initiatives are gone! Without much of an explanation.
The main message is that the money is spent better elsewhere, so we have been told.
Then, I did a bit of digging and was told (quietly) that our program was causing more divisiveness than creating unity. It was, as HR said, becoming a legal nightmare.
Storytelling is as old as the humans on the earth.
I know the world, not just my company, faces extreme behavior rather than finding cooperative solutions.
I also know your book, “UNIQUE: How Story Sparks Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement,” has been personally helpful to me.
How can we use the principles of storytelling and redo our diversity program so people will come together more effectively?
Signed,
Still Hopeful
Dear Still Hopeful,
Diversity training cannot be forced on people.
For example, belief systems ingrained in us when we were young work overtime when confronted with differences.
There is a deep desire in all of us to be safe. We are more comfortable and feel safer with those who “are just like us.”
The “Why” is right before us; we keep enlarging the divide and encouraging verbal and physical attacks. And thus, we spend all of our time protecting ourselves.
Then safety takes on the meaning of guns, gates, and discord.
The “How” of creating more unity is complex and challenging.
It means giving up “the safety of sameness” and entering new territory.
In this new era, we must ask different questions and listen without initial judgment.
Barbra Streisand gave an eloquent speech when she recently accepted the lifetime award from her peers at the SAG/AFTRA ceremony.
The essence of Streisand’s message is about unity.
Streisand, a trailblazer in her own right, used her platform to underscore the importance of diversity within the entertainment industry and all aspects of life. She highlighted how diversity enriches storytelling, broadens perspectives, and fosters creativity and innovation.
A rich tapestry of stories can bring us together.
The star emphasized that diversity contributes to a rich tapestry of stories that reflect many human experiences.
By embracing stories from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, the entertainment industry becomes a mirror that reflects the real world’s diversity.
Films and books allow us to enter someone else’s life and learn by watching and listening to their narratives.
Inclusive representation of gender, age, color, and religion produces the best films.
The legendary singer and actress spoke passionately about the need for inclusive representation in front of and behind the camera.
Streisand advocates for listening to diverse voices. This ensures that different communities are accurately and authentically portrayed in the media.
She argued that this creates a fairer industry and promotes audience understanding and empathy.
Diversity is a primary catalyst for creativity.
Streisand also highlighted the positive impact of diversity on creativity.
When people from different backgrounds come together, they bring unique perspectives and ideas that can lead to groundbreaking and innovative projects.
The fusion of diverse talents fosters an environment where creativity flourishes. Here, we push boundaries and achieve more.
Breaking stereotypes is needed now more than ever.
Breaking away from stereotypes was another critical theme in Streisand’s speech.
By diversifying the narratives and characters in film and television, society can challenge preconceived notions and foster a more inclusive and accepting culture. Streisand celebrated the power of storytelling in reshaping societal norms and dismantling harmful stereotypes.
In short, Barbra Streisand’s SAG-AFTA Award speech is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of diversity. Beyond the glitzy awards ceremonies and Hollywood glamour, her words resonate as a call to action for industries and societies to embrace the richness of acknowledging and celebrating our differences.
Streisand’s advocacy for diversity not only benefits the entertainment industry but serves as an inspiration for creating a more inclusive and harmonious world.
To your success,
Sylvia Lafair
PS. Want more detail about the power of story at work? My award-winning book, “UNIQUE: How Story Sparks Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement, is here for you.
