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IOM Blog

February 27, 2023

Creating a Sense of Belonging

Belonging is often described as a sense of community or when one can be their authentic self, to be seen and heard. When was the last time you felt as if you could be your authentic self?  Have you ever felt that you could be your authentic self without judgment or ridicule? Do the organizations that you work for or volunteer in truly see you? Studies show that teams that are diverse operate at much higher levels than homogenous teams. It is important that leaders work to create teams that have a sense of belonging.

As a public engagement consultant and nonprofit volunteer, I have observed how different organizations live out their commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging every day. It is important that we endeavor to create spaces for all. I often encourage the organizations that I work with to go engage in intentional belonging. What I mean by that is, we should do more than just check a box. We should take true inventory of our organizational practices, policies, and work to gain insight on how those things shape organizational culture. If we truly want to create inclusive environments that allow all to thrive, we must be open to other viewpoints; understand that many of the narratives that have been shared with us are not whole; and take intentional steps toward change.

 Creating a sense of belonging is so much bigger than checking a box. When we create space for all, we begin to see that everyone has something to contribute. Now, creating space will look different in each organization, it will require us to do some “self-work”. It will not be as easy as making a peanut butter jelly sandwich, but it will be worth it.

Over the years, I have found that organizations that are willing to do the following can begin the process of creating a culture of belonging.

  1. Seek to gain understanding of why establishing belonging is important.
  2. Be clear on your organization’s goals for creating and fostering an inclusive environment.
  3. Be willing to change policies and procedures that do not align with your commitment to creating a culture of belonging.

In closing, creating a sense of belonging will be different for each organization because people are unique. Ultimately, each of us wants to be able to show up as our authentic self – not to be judged on the basis of our skin color, hair, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or any other identifier. We need to be intentional about creating spaces that allow all to feel empowered to contribute. Ultimately, this will have a positive impact on the organization and the work we do together.

Avatar photo
Crystal Allen Dallas, IOM
Founder and Chief Engagement Officer
Excel Business Concepts (EBC)

Crystal Allen Dallas is the Founder and Chief Engagement Officer for Excel Business Concepts (EBC). Her firm provides integrated marketing specialties such as public relations, marketing, and brand development to all types of entities. She is an innovative thinker, dedicated to pursuing excellence in all her endeavors, and serves as a creative collaborator to her clients. Throughout her career, she has championed the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. She has dedicated her work to amplifying the voices of all.

Crystal is a change agent on a mission to serve as a catalyst for the equitable treatment for all. She believes in giving back to her community and has served on several boards with various organizations ranging from arts and culture to human service. She currently serves on the board of directors for Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Women In Transportation – St. Louis Chapter, Junior League of St. Louis and St. Louis Radio Arts Foundation.

Crystal received her bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies and Public Policy from Dillard University. She has also completed coursework toward a master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning. She received a Master of Human Service Administration from Louisiana State University. Crystal resides in the St. Louis Metropolitan area with her husband and two children.

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