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Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide to Simplify Dei

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At a moment in history when institutions are collapsing, violence and injustice are skyrocketing, and the outcomes of systemic oppression go viral on a daily basis, Dr. Nika White's, Inclusion Uncomplicated has arrived at the perfect time.

This book is the guide you have been waiting for: one that unravels the complexity of diversity, equity, and inclusion, teases out root causes of systemic oppression, and delivers simple, actionable tools for real change. Right now. When it's needed the most. The wisdom contained within these pages comes from Dr. Nika's twenty-plus years of helping companies across the globe create more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable cultures. Dr. Nika's philosophy is simple-DEI is a responsibility we all share. It's going to take each one of us moving from passivity to impact within our unique spheres of influence.

That's why this book is written in a straight-forward, conversational style that speaks to the leader in all of us. From real-life, workplace scenarios, to the latest research on what works and what doesn't, to strategies for untangling the gnarled threads of bias-readers will find everything they need to become DEI allies, changemakers, and inclusive leaders, no matter where they are on the DEI journey.

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2023

14 people are currently reading
452 people want to read

About the author

Nika White

2 books

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for ᛚᚨᚱᚲᚨ × ᚠᛖᚾᚱᛁᚱ (Semi hiatus).
412 reviews37 followers
July 7, 2023
Change occurs on an indivudual level, or it doesn’t occur at all.


DEI is an acronym that stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. It is used to describe polices and program that promote the representation and participation of different group of individuals.

As the book explains, it’s not just about race – sexism, heterosexism, ableism, classism, ageism and a whole lot of “isms” are sadly involved.

Author Nika White pours 20 years of experience in the field to make us understand concepts that can appear hard to grasp at a first glance, and giving us the tools to actively start to make a difference.

What I liked about this book is that the author really manages to break down concepts into notions that were easier to assimilate – some things are not really new, but she does put them into a new light and perspective.

The author gives also practical tips for changing our behaviour and environment, reminding us that is not a “one time thing”, but a journey to make our world more inclusive and just, and to enrich us all.

The graphics at the end of each chapter and at the end of the book sum up the most important concepts, and make them stick. Throughout the whole book I couldn’t help but notice their beautiful styles – I loved them!

Before leaving you with the index of the book, here is the site of Dr. Nika White, founder of Nika White Consulting . Their full-time services are all about diversity, equity, and inclusion. You can also find her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

You do not have to wait for someone in a leadership role to say we’re going to do this. If you see something, say something.


Index
Chapter 1 – Inclusion Is a Mindset
Chapter 2 – The Power of Story
Chapter 3 – DEI is an Opportunity, Not an Obligation
Chapter 4 – Bias Is Like a Disease
Chapter 5 – Want to Be an Ally? Earn It.
Chapter 6 – Understanding Privilage
Chapter 7 – Transform Your Culture
Chapter 8 – Inclusion Is Leadership

More at
Inky Lighthouse.

**Thanks to NetGalley, Dr. Nika White, and ForbesBooks for an ARC of this book.**
Profile Image for Wendy Keenan.
148 reviews2 followers
September 20, 2023
I think this book would have been more powerful had I read it with someone else or a small group of people like as a book club. It would have been great to bounce ideas and thoughts off other people rather than just taking notes and thinking things through on my own. I’m going to recommend this to my company’s DEI committee as an idea to help us move along. I really did like all the reminders that this is a journey, not a destination as well as that it is progress not perfection that we are aiming for.
Profile Image for Steph.
155 reviews26 followers
February 6, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated is a nice guide for businesses and individuals to start thinking about and implementing DEI practices into their work space and every day lives. Dr. White provides good examples of situations to look out for and how to address and reflect on them to make positive changes. She has provided us with some tools to evaluate current practices, create a plan to improve DEI practices and workable solutions to implement these changes.
Profile Image for Anna.
57 reviews1 follower
April 23, 2023
Thank you so much to the author for the free Kindle copy I won in a Goodreads giveaway!

Dr. White has put in SO much emotional labor in this book! She writes that her intention was to make the book useful for people in all phases of their DEI journey, and I agree that anyone can learn something from this book. I read it to see if this might be a useful required reading for DEI boards I’m involved in at my university, and although this book is intended for corporate businesses, I think there was a lot in there that was applicable for academia settings as well.

I do think that the book is best for folx who are really interested in learning more about DEI, but are fairly new on the journey. While I still learned a lot from this book, I think those with dominant identities would benefit the most from the entirety of the book. The book is also brilliant in that it has a graphic summary at the end of each chapter, as well as a written summary of the whole book and compiled graphics at the back.

My main criticism of this book is that it doesn’t take a systems approach to change, but instead attempts to create smaller adjustments to capitalistic systems, which I don’t think is a sustainable model. I understand that this is aimed for businesses, and they need to make money, but it’s hard to have true equity under capitalism.
Profile Image for Bryanna Bond.
Author 12 books9 followers
January 31, 2023
*I was having a hard time taking seriously the author constantly coming back to cancel culture as if in the practical sense it is anything more than a dog whistle used by people that don't want any accountability for their actions. It felt like such a false dichotomy because even if the author just wanted to reference an extreme, constantly referencing "cancel culture" but dismissing people actually, intentionally acting on ignorance and Bigotry as something along the lines of "you can't change them but kill them with kindness" and not bringing it back up (at least not as often) it was very frustrating and felt dismissive of the actual realities going on.
**I also hate how they list how diversity can benifit you personally and put all the community things below bottom line. For the author to be trying to push this books to general public or reach the people that use netgalley regularly feels gross. Especially since the other perspective "do it for others" is labeled as a burden. It just feels dehumanizing.
*"tell me more about that" feels like such an odd question. "Why" is the actual question you want answered it feel as if the author is approaching this as if why is too harsh or the author was looking for something catchy to be known for. Because this question is so broad that it feels like you might go thirty minutes to get to the why which is what you actually need.
Profile Image for Leann.
205 reviews10 followers
Read
February 2, 2023
In 2022, I made it a point to read more books by BIPOC authors, so what better way to start 2023 than reading a book about diversity, equity and inclusion.

I am part of a DEI learning community where I work, so Inclusion Uncomplicated was a wonderful way to expand the learning community beyond the monthly sessions.

Author Dr. Nika White really breaks down DEI into actionable tools and steps. She also takes DEI talks about how diversity and inclusion go beyond race and includes women, the LGBT community and the differently-abled community as well.

I honestly feel like more people need to be Brough to the DEI landscape in Nika White’s style. I think too many people are brought to a DEI session that is race focused, and that can turn them off. But if you open DEI up beyond just focusing on equity and inclusion of the different races, and realize that there are inequalities that go beyond race (but also include race) more people can approach DEI tools and take the steps to make meaningful change.

I listened to Inclusion Uncomplicated on audiobook, which was narrated by the author. I honestly want a physical copy of this book to read through and reference again and again.

Thank you to NetGalley and Forbes Audio for the review copy in exchange for a review.
Profile Image for Kristin.
113 reviews8 followers
March 26, 2023
Definitely, a read that most if not all people should read. What is DEI? It is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Dr. Nika White has created a resource for people to dive deep into the world issues of DEI. This book is full of personal stories, tools, questions, and research to really make people think about how to create a successful and sustainable environment that focuses on DEI. Dr. White really starts from the beginning and lays out what privilege and intersectionality really mean. Her explanations are extremely easy to understand and offer tools and ways for people to question their own lives and behaviors as well as those around them and what THEY can do to change it. Especially in our times now, this book is extremely invaluable. With her own experiences and expertise, Dr. White provides a written resource for those who want to change but don’t know how or are on the line / confused about what it all means. I LOVED the page that has the overall lessons and thoughts at the end of each chapter and the questions/actions we can take. Truly a powerful book. I feel like this will be a book I have on my shelves and buy for friends in all sectors. People may have good intentions but without the focus of DEI how can those changes truly be for the benefit of everyone?
Profile Image for Karyn H.
568 reviews10 followers
March 29, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated is very educative for both individuals and society as a whole.

Dr. Nika White is an award-winning management and leadership consultant and an executive DEI practitioner. Part of her work is helping organizations create and imbibe cultures of inclusion and belonging to their establishments. Besides her many achievements, Nika has over two decades of experience working with different companies around the world.
In this book: Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide to Simplify DEI Nika provides practical ways to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in an organization. Inclusion Uncomplicated provides information and guides that are very easy to understand. The author uses clear and specific terms to present her ideas.
Also, there is so much useful information to deduce from Inclusion Uncomplicated as regards to DEI. While reading the book, I began to ask myself specific questions like how much contribution have I made in the past when it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Dr. Nika White writes from the standpoint of empathy for the human race, which makes this book an essential tool for everyone who is looking for ways to improve their listening and communication skills. This book deserves a 5-star rating for me.
Profile Image for Aparna Preethi.
Author 1 book55 followers
March 19, 2023
"Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide To Simplify DEI" by Dr. Nika White is an insightful and thought-provoking book that provides a practical and accessible guide to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). White's writing style is clear and concise, with practical advice and actionable steps that readers can take to create a more inclusive workplace or community. The book is well-organized and covers a range of topics, from unconscious bias to microaggressions to cultural competence. What sets "Inclusion Uncomplicated" apart is its focus on simplicity and accessibility. White uses relatable anecdotes and real-world examples to illustrate complex concepts, making DEI more approachable and understandable for readers of all backgrounds. "Inclusion Uncomplicated" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to create a more inclusive and equitable environment, whether in the workplace or community. White's insights and advice are practical, actionable, and transformative, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in DEI.
Profile Image for Marina  Lujan .
880 reviews13 followers
March 23, 2023
It is not easy to become a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion) ally, but Dr. Nika makes it accessible and meaningful in her book, Inclusion Uncomplicated. The author guides us through DEI's most important issues, such as diversity, equity, and inclusion, using simple, easy-to-understand language.

What I found most interesting about this book was how Dr. Nika demonstrated that becoming a DEI partner is not just a task for subject matter experts. In our communities and workplaces, we can all be change agents and inclusive leaders. The author gives us practical tools to begin making a difference.

This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in learning more about DEI and becoming an inclusive leader in their environment. The author's writing is clear, precise, and easy to understand, making learning an enjoyable and rewarding experience. In summary, it's a fantastic book that everyone should have in their personal library.
Profile Image for Lydia.
31 reviews12 followers
April 8, 2023
While reading the ebook and listening to the audiobook, I felt fortunate to have experienced both. Dr. Nika White's narration was remarkable. She maintained a calm demeanor while exuding passion for her work on Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI). Having the author narrate her work added a personal touch to her exceptional writing.

Having followed Dr. Nika White's work on DEI for a while, I knew her upcoming book would be invaluable. It's a must-read for executive leadership, allies, DEI practitioners, or anyone seeking to enhance DEI efforts within their organization. The book provides an in-depth look into the world of DEI, covering critical issues with the help of personal stories, practical tools, and impressive research. By doing so, the author explains the complexities of DEI and how to create an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable organization.

I highly recommend this book to everyone, as it is a fantastic tool that should be part of everyone's library.
Profile Image for Mariana.
628 reviews11 followers
March 24, 2023
Inclusion uncomplicated by Dr Nika White is a book that I highly recommend for all people who have or aspire to high positions in a company or also for those entrepreneurs who are already having the capacity to hire and have a work team that they lead. This book has key concepts for managing companies today and how to succeed as a leader.

The book is based on concepts such as inclusion, diversity and equity, terms that are frequently heard in terms of work environment but that are not really put into practice in many cases, which causes harm to the person and this generates a business failure. Drawing on her two years of experience, the author provides a guide to help readers understand key terms. The book also includes several work strategies that are real and applicable, and hints at what works and what doesn't in order to have a successful company.
Profile Image for Chico's Mom.
932 reviews7 followers
March 25, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide To Simplify DEI is a very insightful reference that speaks volumes about creating a more inclusive and positive workplace. DEI meaning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the makings of the perfect workplace. The book is easy to read, direct and since it's written in a more conversational way, it makes you feel really included in the discussions in the book. I have learned a lot from this book , how dangerous bias is and how powerful effective leadership is. We can change the world one workplace or just one person at a time. By focusing on the behaviour or action, not the person, it is easy to motivate someone and fix work problems. I am so glad to have read this book. I wish my previous managers read this book, maybe our workplace environment would have been better.
Profile Image for Helen Y.
4 reviews
February 2, 2023
Appreciated the opportunity to review Inclusion Uncomplicated by Dr. Nika White. Have and will continue to consume as much information as practicable with respect to inclusion; DEIB work, indubitably, is important for all people to actively engage.

Dr. White’s book was accessible and imparted some helpful information and perspectives. There were certain points Dr. White made that were unique in comparison with other DEI literature I’ve previously read, which gave pause and invited reflection.

I appreciated this version vastly more than the audiobook which I struggled with due to the narration. Thank you to NetGalley, Forbes Books, and the author for the opportunity to review this ARC.
Profile Image for Ivan M.
838 reviews21 followers
March 20, 2023
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: These are the pillars to change the world and turn it into a better one. That's my personal opinion, the one that I share with the author Dr. Nika White. With over twenty years of experience working for companies to change their work environment, this book is her legacy, with the hope to reach even more people and create a deeper impact in society. 

Inclusion Uncomplicated shows a truth that many people don't realize. I think people discriminate on a daily bases without even realizing it, at least that's what happened to me some time ago. I think this book is a great eye-opener and provides different tools to deal with complicated situations.

Great work Dr. White, definitely a recommended read!
Profile Image for Lucia Maranghello.
422 reviews9 followers
March 21, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide To Simplify DEI ( Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) written by Dr. Nika White is a book that shows how to approach systemic oppression and useful tools to find real change.

The author delivers a set of concepts to understand the truth behind DEI and how to properly represent it. This is a book written with a lot of heat and sweat, showing highly detailed information regarding these 3 topics and how to become DEI allies.

The text comprehension was not easy. Although it had real-life examples, it is not an easy issue to talk about, therefore, the reading was quite complicated at times.

For readers that enjoy such issues and wish to be DEI advocates, I would recommend it!
Profile Image for Andrea.
354 reviews6 followers
March 21, 2023
In this vitally relevant book, “Inclusion Uncomplicated” by the expert in her field, the author Dr. Nika White, teaches us about what it takes to be truly inclusive in the company setting. I love her all-important introductory words “Leave no one behind” and that as humans, we are interdependent.

This is a candidly written book that has a momentous role to play in our present culture and lives, now more than ever before. As the author admits, it was not always easy for her as a black woman, but this has helped her understand diversity, equity and inclusion in an extraordinary and deep way. The part of the book about understanding privilege was a real eye opener for me. This is an outstanding book to which I would love to give more than five stars if it was possible.
Profile Image for Almiria.
701 reviews8 followers
March 22, 2023
This well-written and easy-to-follow book by Dr. Nika White teaches us about DEI, which stands for diversity, equity and inclusion, and its vital importance in the business world. The wonderful guidance given in this book can also be applied to other situations outside of a business and company setting.

I really appreciate the straight-forward writing style and the fact that the author shows us everything from having the right mindset about inclusion to being an inclusive leader. I particularly enjoyed the chapter about changing one’s culture. It is so interesting to read about the values of DEI, how to build these values up and how to maintain an inclusive culture. This is an incredibly good and much-needed book!
Profile Image for Evelyn.
1,212 reviews26 followers
March 23, 2023
Dr. Nika’s book is a complete resource of inspiration for any leader seeking to create a better future for their company, employees or their customers. It’s full of useful tools that help the reader to understand the complexity of diversity and in this way, to create a significant change.
Let me say that this author was the indicated to write about such a broad and controversial topic. Her vast experience allows her to address this issue in a greatest manner. She also provides relevant, easy-to understand data and practical guidance to apply the theory in the modern world.
As soon as I finished reading this book, I felt ready to make positive changes toward a more inclusive and diverse culture.
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,332 reviews23 followers
March 19, 2023
Diversity

Nowadays tackling diversity, equality and inclusivity an seem daunting and challenging. The author Dr white has taken her experience in this field and given us a book full of encouraging information and concepts that we can implement within our own workspaces. Instead of being overwhelmed, we can now speak about these issues with confidence and also take action to further our goals in DEI. I liked that the author gave the definitions and how they are used so I feel more comfortable in applying them to my daily life. I also feel like I understand the importance better now that I have read this book.
Profile Image for S Tyty.
1,272 reviews27 followers
March 23, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated is written in the form of a guide. It unravels the complexity of diversity, equity, and inclusion, teases out root causes of systemic oppression, and delivers simple, actionable tools for real change. According to the author, it is right now when we need this the most.
Super simple to follow and read, the book opens our minds and enlightens us on so many different aspects that it leaves readers in awe. It is well-crafted and the author seems to have put a lot of research into it.
Human resources and personal management would be enhanced and would, sometimes, even be developed after reading this book. Totally recommended!
Profile Image for Celeste.
995 reviews25 followers
March 23, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated is an inspiring book written by Dr. Nika White. In this book, the author encourages people to bring positive changes to their lives and really understand diversity, equity, and inclusion. By the comprehension of these concepts and how they shape society, we will be able to influence and modify for the better the community and the environment we live in. With so many terrible things happening globally, we sometimes, at least I do, ask ourselves how we can help. How we can be more understanding, make good changes and improve the way we behave. In Inclusion Uncomplicated, I found clear and practical answers. I strongly recommend this great book.
Profile Image for Brenda.
1,306 reviews23 followers
March 24, 2023
The first thing I liked about this book was how effortless author Dr. Nika White writing is and how powerful and straightforward her message becomes. This book is the perfect read to put everyone into a phase of action instead of talking. Although the talking part is important, the real change starts by doing and that is what White is preaching in this book. With a lot of concepts, she explains what society is doing wrong and makes it accountable for that. I found interesting the use of certain words popularized in the last years. I think it is a nice way for young readers to feel relatable to the message.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
18 reviews7 followers
June 20, 2023
This book is an easy read at 177 pages with really great insights and clear actions. Each chapter has a beautiful illustrated summary. Chapter 2's section on connecting through the narrative has really good questions to use like what causes you to to think that way or can you explain what that means to you? Dr. Nika's White's tools are filled with empathy and accountability, and you can feel it throughout the book. Another interesting story was about the C-suite leader's privilege. I don't want to ruin it for you however it was a small act that adds up over time. If you are not sure where to get started on your journey here this is definitely the book to get and discuss with your teams.
Profile Image for Pearl.
534 reviews7 followers
March 15, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide to Simplify Dei, written by Nika White, brings out the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in workplaces. I realized while I was reading this book how often this topic is being disregarded. I am lucky that in the company where I work, inclusivity is very visible, accepted, and well-supported. For me, it's very essential to emphasize its importance because through this we all can feel equality in all sense. The book was well-explained and I love the positive tone of the narratives. In addition, I have learned a lot.
Profile Image for Kelsi Ruffolo.
322 reviews24 followers
January 7, 2023
This was a very insightful NonFiction talking all about diversity, equity and inclusion or, DEI. This is very useful for everybody in our society but specifically could greatly benefit company leaders to better ensure more and more place importance on this topic. Personally, I really enjoyed the authors voice for the audio version, she spoke directly and clearly with passion that you could feel. I would highly recommend to anyone interested in nonfiction, or discussions surrounding DEI.
Profile Image for Stephanie - naturally.caffeinated.reader.
399 reviews3 followers
January 6, 2023
Thank you netgally, dreamscape media and the author for an ALC in exchange for my honest review. This should be required reading for all persons. It speaks to many current issues and how it can be corrected and that actions need to come from everyone particular white persons. The audiobook was as always well produced clear and easy to absorb. Highly recommend. All the stars.
Profile Image for Brooke.
276 reviews
December 5, 2022
Straight forward and approachable discussion of DEI that has learnings to share with everyone, regardless of where they are in their DEI journey. I loved the visual graphic summaries at the end of each chapter to help reinforce the topics covered.
Profile Image for Ell.
523 reviews66 followers
February 2, 2023
Inclusion Uncomplicated is an excellent book covering diversity, equity, and inclusion. DEI goes beyond simple understandings of the topics. It delivers clear and consistent explanations so managers can create a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone, This is a must read.
Profile Image for Bibliophile Unicorn.
252 reviews18 followers
September 13, 2023
Good book, great base to start talking about DEI. The author shows well all her years working in the field . There are good recommendations on how to approach DEI in your business. A bit repetitive a times. But pretty solid information!
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