DEI Series: Religious Persecution, Privilege & Freedom

Given the growing popularity of bringing one’s whole self to work—and that more than 80% of the world claims a religious affiliation—leaders are concerned about how best to handle expressions of faith by their employees. But how far should employers go to accommodate their employees’ religious beliefs and practices? Do employees feel that they work in an inclusive environment/culture? What can organizations do to take advantage of this growing diversity?

In this panel, representatives of major world religions will discuss the intersecting ways in which bias and discrimination disadvantage religious minorities, how their communities meet the challenge, and what it will take to realize our vision of a more inclusive democracy.

Panelists

• Pastor David Grainson, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
• Rebecca Weintraub, Associate Director of Student Engagement, New York Tech
• Dr. Sahar Bilal, NYITCOM Alumna, Resident Physician, Albany Family Medicine

This online event will be moderated by two-spirit activist, educator, and organizer, Cleopatra Tatabele (They/She).

About our Moderator

Cleopatra Tatabele(They/She pronouns) is an activist, healer, educator, and organizer born and raised in Lenape Territory, so-called NYC. Seeing their own ancestral roots as a grounding point for themself, Cleopatra identifies with their Black, Indigenous, and Latinx ancestry and also identifies as two-spirit.

Cleopatra seeks to create safer spaces for all through education, diverse representation, and activism. Cleopatra provides people with tools for success via consultation sessions with social media, educational workshops, and their facilitation prowess. They also are an artist who seeks to create unique pieces to inspire change in her community.

They believe that by honoring their Black and Indigenous ancestors healing is possible.

DEI Series is sponsored by the Office of Student Engagement & Development as part of the Time to Talk: Community Connections initiative.

This event will take place online via Zoom. To receive the Zoom information, please register below.

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