In this episode of After Further Consideration, hosts Cody Nielsen and Tomika Ferguson engage in an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Eddie Moore Jr., a renowned voice in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As the founder of America and Moore and the White Privilege Conference, Dr. Moore shares his personal journey from overcoming addiction to becoming a leader in the fight against systemic inequality. His passion, resilience, and actionable strategies offer valuable insights for DEI practitioners navigating a challenging socio-political landscape.
In this episode of After Further Consideration, hosts Cody Nielsen and Tomika Ferguson engage in an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Eddie Moore Jr., a renowned voice in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As the founder of America and Moore and the White Privilege Conference, Dr. Moore shares his personal journey from overcoming addiction to becoming a leader in the fight against systemic inequality. His passion, resilience, and actionable strategies offer valuable insights for DEI practitioners navigating a challenging socio-political landscape.
Key Takeaways
What inspired Dr. Moore to pursue DEI work?
Dr. Moore's journey began with his own struggles. As a college athlete and later a graduate, he returned home to an environment that led him into addiction. A second chance—choosing sobriety over incarceration—was a pivotal moment, launching his academic and professional career. His commitment to DEI solidified during his PhD program, where he was challenged to confront white supremacy and oppression directly in his work.
How does Dr. Moore maintain optimism amid crises in DEI work?
Dr. Moore emphasizes "pessimistic optimism," which combines hope with actionable strategies. He likens current challenges to a Super Bowl moment for social justice advocates, where preparation and resilience take center stage. By framing opposition as evidence of impactful work, he motivates others to persist in the face of adversity.
How should leaders approach the quiet participant in DEI efforts?
Dr. Moore sees silence as the greatest ally of hate. To engage quiet participants, he suggests creating diverse opportunities for involvement—writing responses, sharing creative reflections, or participating in smaller discussions. He encourages leaders to emphasize the necessity of action, reminding them that participation can take many forms.
What actionable strategies does Dr. Moore recommend for DEI leaders?
What is Dr. Moore's message to those facing hate and resistance?
Dr. Moore advises taking hate mail and protests as a sign of meaningful work. He stresses preparedness and strategic action without succumbing to fear. Highlighting the importance of collaboration and faith, he believes this is the moment for seasoned advocates to step up and lead.
Dr. Moore’s parting advice? Recognize this time of heightened challenges as an opportunity to advance meaningful change. His mantra for DEI leaders: "Now is our time."
Guest Name: Eddie Moore, Moore for America, The White Privilege Institute
Guest Social: linkedin.com/in/eddiemoorejr
Guest Bio: Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr. has pursued and achieved success in academia, business, diversity, leadership and community service. In 1996, he started to provide comprehensive diversity, privilege, leadership and #BecomingAntiRacist trainings/workshops. He is recognized as one of the nation’s top speakers and educators.
Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr. has pursued and achieved success in academia, business, diversity, leadership and community service. In 1996, he started America & MOORE, LLC to provide comprehensive diversity, privilege, leadership and #BecomingAntiRacist training/workshops. He is recognized as one of the nation’s top motivational/educational speakers and practitioners. His interview with Wisconsin Public Radio won the 2015 Wisconsin Broadcasters Association's Best Interview in Medium Market Radio, 1st Place, he is featured in the film “I’m not Racist….Am I?” and in the article 5 Clear Ways to Tell Whether You'll Be a Good Leader in 2021. Dr. Moore was recently named one of Wisconsin's 51 Most Influential Black Leaders and in 2022 was the recipient of the ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law’s Honorable Bernice B. Donald Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Legal Profession Award. He is also the Founder/Program Director for the global White Privilege Conference (WPC).
In 2014 Dr. Moore founded The Privilege Institute (TPI) which engages people in research, education, action and leadership through workshops, conferences, publications and strategic partnerships and relationships. He is co-founder of the on-line journal Understanding and Dismantling Privilege, co-editor of Everyday White People Confront Racial and Social Injustice: 15 Stories, The Guide for White Women who Teach Black Boys,The Diversity Consultant Cookbook: Preparing for the Challenge (2019), Teaching Beautiful Brilliant Black Girls (2021) and Lil’ e - The Big Misunderstanding (2020). Over a 10-years span, he served as Dir of Diversity at Brooklyn Friends School (Brooklyn, NY) and The Bush School (Seattle, WA). Dr. Moore received his PhD from the University of Iowa in Education Leadership. His PhD research is on Black Football Players at Division III Schools in the Midwest.