Lessons In Communication And Authenticity With Mercy A Quaye

On this episode of Communicate Like You Give A Damn, host, Kim Clark, continues her conversation with founder of The Narrative Project, Mercy A. Quaye. Together, they dive even deeper into the ever-evolving landscape of DEI communication strategies. Beginning with reflections on the challenging start to 2024, marked by headlines questioning the validity of DEI efforts, they explore the necessity of authentic communication in navigating the DEI narrative. From the co-opting of language to the importance of understanding communities, they dissect the complexities of DEI discourse and its implications on society and the workplace. Drawing parallels to historical movements like the Fugitive Slave Act, they shed light on the recurring patterns of divisive rhetoric and the imperative of standing firm against it. Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, Mercy and Kim offer a compelling case for embracing authenticity and empathy in communication, advocating for a more just and inclusive future.
About The Guest:
Mercy boasts over a decade-long career spanning journalism, communications, and public relations in New Haven and statewide, culminating in the establishment of The Narrative Project, aimed at providing top-tier communications solutions for socially impactful organizations. Transitioning from traditional journalism, she delved into mission-oriented communication roles within the public and non-profit sectors, advocating for equitable education and undocumented students' rights. Holding key positions like Managing Director of External Affairs with Educators for Excellence and Director of Communications with New Haven Public Schools, Mercy's work underscores her commitment to effecting positive social change through collaboration and amplifying underrepresented narratives, influenced by her upbringing in West River, a community marked by opportunity disparities. Her multifaceted background, from navigating various faiths to engaging in outdoor pursuits and advocating for social justice, informs her unique perspective. Additionally, she serves as a digital journalism professor at Southern Connecticut State University and remains active in professional journalism organizations. Mercy earned her Bachelors in Journalism and Masters in Public Relations from Quinnipiac University.
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About Kim:
Kim Clark (she/her) focuses her work on the communicator and content creator's role in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She is the co-author of The Conscious Communicator: The fine art of not saying stupid sh*t, an Amazon #1 bestseller and the leading voice for DEI communications and social justice messaging for brands.
Her career spans documentary filmmaking, agency partnerships with the Discovery Channel, teaching at San Jose State University, and leading global internal communication teams at KLA, PayPal, GoDaddy, and GitHub. She is known for her ability to facilitate sensitive yet urgent conversations to make meaningful progress in creating inclusive workplaces. Kim began integrating DEI into communications beginning in 2004 and it wasn't until the summer of 2020 when her peers starting listening and seeing they have a role and responsibility in DEI and in social justice on behalf of their organizations. As a student of life, she has completed several certifications including DEI Certifications from Yale School of Management & UC Berkeley. Kim is also an NSA Speaker.
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