Celebrated author Michael Eric Dyson to visit Paducah for special event with NAACP
By Hayley Robb, Building Kentucky As our nation is faced with difficult conversations around race and violence, it’s important for our communities to not only have open and frank conversations with each other but to empower our young people to make meaningful change. The Paducah-McCracken County NAACP will be hosting author, minister, scholar and media […]
How Kentucky employers can promote racial equity
By Hayley Robb, Building Kentucky The business community has great influence in shaping economic inclusion and increasing racial equity across the Commonwealth. Racial disparities limit so many from access to good jobs, financial resources, education and healthcare that allow for wellbeing and prosperity. Diversity in the workspace spurs growth and innovation. When people from varying […]
How Kentuckians can be good online citizens
Election season is upon us and tensions can run high on social media and elsewhere. A functioning democracy needs people to discuss ideas, principles and events – without name-calling, deceit, or the destruction of relationships. Practicing good online citizenship will allow every Kentuckian to stand up for what they believe, without tearing down their neighbors. […]
New York Times highlights Kentucky bank’s small-dollar lending
The New York Times highlighted a common barrier to homeownership in a recent article about affordable housing. Buying a home in a low-to-moderate income neighborhood can be difficult because many banks won’t approve low-dollar loans. Louisville-based Republic Bank was mentioned as the largest major mortgage lender helping buyers in these communities become homeowners. Republic also recently announced a new […]
Republic Bank launches $3 million community loan fund
Small businesses in economically challenged communities will benefit from a new $3 million Community Loan Fund from Republic Bank. Pedro Bryant has been hired for a newly created role to help a diverse group of small businesses grow through new programs. The new Community Loan Fund will promote business development and job creation in low-and-moderate income […]
What are the racial inequalities in Kentucky? Chamber panel discusses the need for systemic change
The Kentucky Chamber recently hosted a panel of experts to discuss racial inequalities in Kentucky. Kentucky Chamber president Nick Rowe started by accenting that, “as a chamber of commerce, we would like to be a part of the solution” addressing the need for systemic change in the Commonwealth. He mentioned hiring practices, income gaps, education, health status […]
How to Start Discussions About Race and Equality at Work
Business owners have a responsibility to talk about race and equality in the workplace. While these discussions can be difficult, it is more important now than ever before to acknowledge issues with diversity, inclusion and equity and take steps to address them. Demetria Miles-McDonald, founder and CEO of Louisville-based Decide Diversity, helps companies increase the effectiveness […]
Is Your Company Inclusive? Here are 10 Questions to Ask
The current Black Lives Matter movement has created an opportunity for every manager, employee, and company to take a hard look at its inclusion, diversity and equity efforts and seek ways to be better. Looking for growth areas and identifying shortfalls is the first step toward growth. Here are 10 questions to ask of yourself […]
Find Kentucky Resources for Diversity and Inclusion
Great minds think differently. Good leaders recognize that surrounding themselves with diverse voices benefits everyone. Diversity should be a priority for every business. Ensuring the growth of diversity, equity and inclusion creates work environments that attract and retain the best talent. The true work of diversity, equity and inclusion isn’t to just be representative, it’s […]