News & Updates | In the wake of campus protests and corporate activism surrounding the Gaza war, organizational responses have been less than satisfying for the students and employees who are struggling to make themselves heard and open a dialogue around key issues. | Google's CEO justified firing employee activists, while police cleared Columbia University's occupied building, resulting in several arrests. Amid these contentious moments, leaders' communication has been scant, underscoring a reluctance to engage. | These events spotlight the need for institutional inclusivity and DE&I programs to have intersectional discussions about these topics, which impact employees’ interactions and wellbeing in the workplace. Ragan and PR Daily have been diving into the art of approaching these tough conversations with tact and grace: | - Brown President Christina H Paxson's recent communication marks a positive step on the university front, emphasizing the need for mindful language in stakeholder relations.
- The authors of the book “We Can’t Talk About That at Work” offered timely advice for discussing polarizing topics. “[T]he first thing in terms of bringing people together is coming at it with respect—respect for the humanity of all people,” said author and Winters Group founder Mary-Frances Winters in conversation with Ragan’s Justin Joffe.
- Meanwhile, Ragan’s Mike Prokopeak spoke with National Geographic Explorer of the Year Tara Roberts on tackling painful topics and creating positive change through historical storytelling. “When you are looking at the broad strokes of things, it’s so easy to see people in stereotypes,” Roberts said. “But when you start to deal with people individually, it is a whole different ballgame.”
| These challenges won’t go away any time soon, and the year ahead promises rising tensions as we hurtle toward November. Join live discussions about navigating tough conversations during Ragan’s Communications Week, Nov. 12-15, either at our Future of Communications Conference in Austin, Tex. or at our satellite events coming to select cities. | — Jess Zafarris, Director of Content, Ragan and PR Daily | |
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