Inside InterCommunity: August 2024

By Dyana Hagen, LMSW

Diversity Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, (DEI&B) known as the WE CARE Council at InterCommunity, allows us all a chance to immerse ourselves in the interactions of culture, race, and ethnicity and be aware of the unique melting pot of people we serve in our communities. With a sense of fascination and respect, we realize that there is something new to learn every day about the heritage and culture of any given people in this shared world. This is why a diverse workforce here at InterCommunity is a strength. Maslow's (1947) hierarchy of needs outlines the common thread of humanity: basic needs such as food, water, and shelter; safety; love and belonging; esteem; and self-actualization. These needs drive the self-motivation of everyone on the planet. When we focus on what we have in common, then we can naturally appreciate the added value of how individuals celebrate their heritage and culture. This creates a beautiful melting pot where everyone can thrive.



We all can acknowledge the effects of violence and hate in our communities. Yet, it’s hard for society to acknowledge the dark root cause. This darkness is a direct result of dishonoring and disregarding cultural heritage. We must face that darkness with the light of truth: that society has turned a blind eye to the centuries-old oppression of our diverse, marginalized, and vulnerable communities. Violence harms the mental, emotional, physical, and social well- being of both the victim and of the perpetrator. The tendency for any type of behavior is learned, not inherited. People who exhibit violence often learned this behavior by being victims of or exposed to violent acts. People cannot thrive when they are paralyzed in fear, living in survival mode year after year. It forces people into poverty and strips them of the ability to see themselves as empowered to achieve the American dream.