It's time to get under the covers | Christie Smith | TEDxBeaconStreet

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. This hard-hitting talk is all about other people, until you realize it’s about you. The statistical realities around diversity and inclusion in corporate America today are shocking, and don’t think you aren’t part of the melee. "It's time to get under the covers" reveals an epidemic of epic proportions and shows us how we’re innocent - yet willing - participants in the stalled efforts of equality in the workplace. The talk urges leaders at all levels to finally make the changes needed. This is the leadership issue of our time.
Christie is the Managing Principal for Consulting in the western region of the U.S. for Deloitte overseeing more than 2,400 consulting practitioners and 250 Principals and Directors. In addition to her management and client responsibilities, Christie is Deloitte’s most senior diversity partner leading the Deloitte University Leadership Centers for Inclusion and Community Impact that provide a platform for developing solutions with people, clients, academics and non-profits about how the business world can fundamentally redefine how it approaches issues of inclusion, transitioning veterans, and education.
She as been identified by the Diversity Journal as a 2013 “Woman to Watch”. and recognized in 2012, 2013 & 2014 as one of San Francisco’s Most Influential Women by the Business Times. Her work has been featured in Fortune, Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, Washington Post, Forbes, Fast Company and on CNN.
About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[@MOUTHTROMBONE]

at my Whole Foods workplace, there is massive, yet unspoken, pressure for me to blend in and conform, though it is clear to all my customers and coworkers that my eccentricities are what attract very loyal customers to my sandwich bar. I am very grateful for this long overdue Ted Talk...Thanks Christie Smith!

[@tomsantoro8341]

Such an amazing presentation! This reached down and touched my inner soul. I was so incredibly moved by this. Christie Smith, what an amazing delivery! I believe that the workplace must become truly accepting of diversity from the top of the organization down to the line managers, allowing for ones true self to comfortably come out and be known by others. Communicating this out to the organization from leadership is one thing. It is the actions of our leaders is what truly matters in that they show themselves to embrace diversity in order for our workforce to be comfortable in coming out without fear of retribution or fear of becoming limited in ones career.

[@nagch6401]

the best statement ever i heard .... we don`t need emotionally intelligent leaders.... we need emotionally matured leaders ... Kudo`s ... v nice video n the way it was put forth... inspiring !!!

[@yilderim1924]

This is excellent - informative and moving. You can see the passion in her voice. This is worth sharing.

[@goldenera567]

Brilliant analysis and an inspiring talk....The key is liberating the leaders to unleash the covered potential of the people they lead. However the strong identities of the leaders themselves can be an impediment to change as that's what got them there in the first place. The leaders with high emotional intelligence should take notice as its much easier for them to change..

[@ogaitnasdroletropal]

Thank you for this very powerful message. The potential! Gracias!

[@janetmoran6839]

Fantastic delivery! I question whether the issue is more about how children are raised. Good parenting should instill in individuals a sense of pride in who they are, no matter where they come from, regardless of their preferences, idiosyncrasies or physical or mental challenges.

[@robertheng5921]

Really enjoyed the metaphors. It's a great example of leaders observing but not seeing and hearing but not listening.

[@paulwalsh3950]

Well done Christy. 👍

[@mro8331]

Excellent

[@AntonyLee0]

Thank you.

[@BookishTrina]

FANTASTIC!

[@alsniece]

Bravo! Go Christie!

[@coloneljill]

Leadership is inclusion and Christie nails it!