22 3.8: Anti-Black Racism in an organization Case 3.3.

The Impact of an Inequitable Platform for Webinar Speakers

Author: Laurie Michael

An organization has historically done monthly webinar offerings to its membership. TGatekeeping,hey do not provide an honorarium or other type of payment to speakers but seek out speakers who will volunteer their time for 1 hour on a particular subject. With an Executive leadership change and in consultation with the EDI committee, this topic has been brought up and with review, noted that >95% of speakers have been white RD’s or other white health practitioners. Most of their speakers return annually as it’s ‘easier’ for the organizer and although they do provide useful information, they lack perspectives and knowledge about other demographics. It was realized by the organization that the webinars have catered to white RD’s who are in a privileged and established position in their career to be able to volunteer their time for free; this approach does not promote equity, inclusion or diversity of potential other speakers who do not have access to this platform to share their expertise and give a voice to others. When the organizer was asked about this approach, she responded that “I don’t know any Black RD’s so it’s easier to ask the people I know”. When prompted further, she added “our membership survey never has requests for BIPOC nutrition information so I’m just following what the members want”. As well, until this time, there is no policy or procedures with the organization on creating safe environments for speakers and participants.