Immigration has become a political battleground in many countries around the world, including the UK. The narratives and legislation surrounding immigration in the UK often disregard the material costs of being an immigrant. EDI initiatives in the workplace also rarely consider ways to authentically support immigrant staff members. In this session, Arish Mudra Rakshasa-Loots (he/him, EDI Consultant for the Ross Group) will lead a collective reflection on the socio-political restrictions, prejudice, and discrimination experienced by immigrants in the workplace. We will explore potential institutional actions that can re-purpose the power of universities as major international employers and challenge our collective assumptions on what we could and should be doing.

Creating an inclusive environment is not limited to a few individuals with specific titles or roles. It is a collective effort that involves everyone in a community or organization. This session will identify ways in which anyone can be a leader in fostering an inclusive environment. Creating an inclusive environment is an ongoing process that requires commitment and effort from everyone. Each person has a role to play in promoting inclusivity and making a positive impact on those around them. The conversation with the panel will explore inclusive leadership through the themes of: How to embrace the work, Leading by example and How to have/ hold space for difficult conversations.

In the realm of advancement, the pursuit of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is foundational to our mission. However, the landscape is not without its challenges, particularly with the rise of the Anti-EDI movement. This session aims to discuss with advancement professionals strategies to navigate this complex terrain and uphold our commitment to EDI. - We will explore the narratives utilized by the Anti-EDI movement to gain insights into the motivations driving opposition to EDI, to better address concerns and inform engagement strategies. - Explore counteracting misinformation and fostering critical thinking dialogue within your advancement initiatives. - Building and strengthening support networks for EDI initiatives through examining strategies, including coalition-building, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy efforts.