How To Go From Diversity Zeros to Diversity Heroes: A Guide For Flotillas Looking to Rebuild their Diversity Efforts
By
Asia N. Wright
Of all the awards an Auxiliary Flotilla can earn, the Three Star for Diversity Excellence is one of the most important the National Commodore can bestow. Why is the award so important? It is the one award that confirms your flotilla both values and accepts the individual differences of its members. A diverse flotilla performs more effectively and efficiently due to the multitude of perspectives, experience, and skillset of its members. Additionally, a flotilla aware of diverse communities will have more success in spreading life-saving messages to communities not historically reached in the past.
When I inherited the position of Flotilla Staff Officer for Diversity ("FSO-DV") in January 2018, the overall diversity efforts of our flotilla, to put it generously, were non-existent. Nothing had been done to advance diversity within the flotilla or at a minimum increase understanding of what diversity means and the impact it could have on the flotilla. FSO DV reports were filed sporadically and contained multiple responses of "nothing to report." So, to put it mildly, I had my work cut out for me.
Nevertheless, I set to work by first developing a game plan with my flotilla's leadership. Together, we identified communities we had never reached and populations that did were not represented within our membership. Armed with this list, I started to develop relationships with points of contacts for the various groups historically underrepresented in outreach efforts.
It was also important for our flotilla's success in making the education of our flotilla members on what diversity means a priority. In order to do that, I enlisted a friend who is a consultant specializing in diversity and cultural awareness to speak at a flotilla meeting. I also contacted every staff officer as well as our general flotilla members and urged them to take the Federal Emergency Management Agency IS-20.19: Diversity Awareness Course. To reinforce diversity concepts, we incorporated presentations on culture, tolerance, and diversity during our monthly meetings.
During the year of working towards the NACO Three Star Award, we learned many lessons of what worked and what didn't. These lessons helped us earn what would be the first of hopefully many NACO Three Star Awards to come. The following are our top Five Best Practices:
At the start of the year, begin filling out the application. The application itself can be used to outline action itemsfor the rest of the year and highlight areas that may need focused efforts. As you conduct diversity related activities, complete the application sections so that filling out the application at the end of year is not a daunting task. This will also avoid finding out at the 11th hour you are unable to meet a required goal.
Enlist an expert in diversity to guide and educate you and your flotilla in making meaningful efforts toward promoting diversity. Consultants likely will be willing to make presentations at your flotilla meetings gratis in order to spread diversity concepts and make new contacts.
Diversity is not limited to just race or gender. Age, religious beliefs, education, and disability are just some characteristics that impact perspectives. Therefore, do not forget that local colleges and universities may have events where your flotilla can set up a recruiting table. Primary schools and youth groups may be interested in encouraging boating interests or require help in obtaining maritime badges. Religious groups in your area may be interested in receiving a safety presentation. Also, do not be afraid to partner with a group that may be outside your area. If you see a great opportunity, reach out to the flotilla in that area and see if you can partner together in developing a relationship in that community.
Great collaborations can come from your members' contacts and affiliated organizations. Members can get you through the front door of an elusive potential community partner who does not respond to cold calls or e-mails.
Potential community partners may not return calls and emails. Events may be cancelled. Do not let this discourage you. Keep on keeping on. Have lots of alternative potential partners. Enlist the help of your members and continue to e-mail and call.
The above tips are only some of the things you can do to become eligible for the NACO Three Star Award for Diversity Excellence. You may find that other approaches work better for your flotilla. Whatever your strategy, good luck in your efforts to promoting diversity in your flotilla and spreading safety education to diverse communities in your area.
Submitted for your consideration from Auxilary Member: Kevin Coulombe, D130, DSO-DV