Along with the fear of a global pandemic, a very clear and loud outcry from communities of color was heard among individuals and organizations that began to look further into the needs of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community. Communities of color were facing grave inequities not only on a larger national scale, but right here in our own cities. Covid-19 cracked open our worlds as we knew it, and a reality surfaced to the broader community which many were not prepared to face, let alone address.
We as leaders in Central Oregon must do better, and the measure we use should be based on our response to the most marginalized among us, not the most privileged.
As many institutions, organizations and businesses are becoming more aware of the need for DEI Work (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), there are several outlets and resources for training, webinars, reading materials and consultants to respond to this opportunity.
Mecca Bend stands ready to work in partnership with select organizations and institutions through a guided methodology in seeking actionable ways to re-envision their business models, internal practices, and guidelines for responding to workplace prejudices, biases, racism, wage inequality and hiring practices that have traditionally excluded communities of color.
From translating marketing and advertising materials not only to Spanish but in a culturally appropriate way that takes into consideration the way Latinx people communicate, to workplace environments that invite communities outside of the dominant culture by adjusting their lens and perspective. Mecca Bend can serve as a consultant to disrupt hierarchical institutions that have yet to acknowledge the assets that lie within real life experience. You will be taught what it is like working in predominantly white spaces in Bend, Oregon. I will share perspectives with you on what it feels like to enter your professional working spaces, and the culture your institution breeds. I bring real life scenarios to educate your leadership by sharing personal experiences from a long career in the private sector, and design with you new models to replace existing inequitable ones.
As a woman of color, living and working in various sectors in Central Oregon over the past 10 years, I can offer you in person listening and learning sessions with a strong emphasis on the needs of the Latinx community, including the undocumented immigrants whose labor continues to be pushed by exploited wages, and the challenges we face as a marginalized group here in Central Oregon.
For more information on Mecca Bend’s Latinx consulting programs and rates please contact me directly at meccabend@gmail.com or by phone at 541-408-8065.
In solidarity,
Janet Sarai Llerandi ~ She/Her/Ella
Hablo Espanol
Executive Director, Mecca Bend
Your support and contributions will enable us to aid and empower the Latinx community of Central Oregon.