With the holidays approaching, some may find themselves encountering family members and friends whose political views differ from their own. The Vynamic team discussed ways to tactfully and authentically engage in those conversations.

In advance of Halloween, the D&I team offered some brief education followed by discussion on how expanding one’s horizons and demonstrating appreciation of a culture is different from cultural appropriation. The team also discussed ways to talk to kids on what is an appropriate way to dress up as someone they admire for Halloween (i.e., musician, athlete, historical figure).

As team members continue to navigate the work-from-home environment, Vynamic hosted Bonnie St. John, a best-selling author, public speaker, and former Paralympic skier. NBC Nightly News called Bonnie “one of the five most inspiring women in America”. Bonnie shared her personal journey, the lessons she learned about inclusion and resilience, and how individuals can become more inclusive and resilient in the face of challenges.

Each month, the D&I community hosts a meeting to educate team members on various topics related to diversity and provide a space for open and safe discussion. In August, Vynamic team members learned about various stigmas attached to specific age demographics and generations, how they impact relationships at work, and what individuals can do to improve intergenerational working environments.

In early June, protests broke out around the country and an incredible movement kicked off to collectively combat racism. The D&I team hosted a discussion on how to keep the momentum of this movement going and what actions individuals can take to continue to better themselves, their teams, and their communities.

For World Autism Day, Vynamic team members learned about neurodiversity, explored how it has evolved throughout the years, and shared their own experiences on how it has touched their lives.

In a time of chaos, confusion, and general uncertainty, Vynamic hosted Stacey Joseph, a Philadelphia-based D&I practitioner. She guided the team through a series of reflections to not only recognize the unspoken effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on their own lives but on the lives of their local, often underserved communities as well.

Throughout the month of February, Vynamic celebrated Black History Month across its four hubs. The D&I team hosted discussions, attended community events, and supported local black-owned restaurants to recognize and highlight the importance of the black community in the US and in healthcare.