Representing Culture and Diversity Throughout Media

I am shaping my career path by delving into the intricate relationship between Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the profound impacts that corporate organizations, higher education institutions, and the media’s discourse on these matters can have on the mental well-being of diverse individuals.

My approach involves leveraging my comprehension of ecological frameworks to establish emotional connections with the communities surrounding me. I actively engage and cultivate trust in my relationships, driven by a deep passion for comprehending the multifaceted influences of DEI on organizations—from economic and business perspectives to personal dimensions.

During the past summer, I utilized insights from my research at the National Student Leadership Conference at Yale University to underscore the significance of DEI from a public relations standpoint for high school students. Engaging in nuanced conversations with students and equipping them with tools often overlooked by businesses and corporations made me feel like I was contributing to the development of the next generation of leaders, fostering deeper connections within themselves and with others.

On a personal level, I serve as the Native American Liaison for the University of Oregon counseling services. In this role, the powerful act of connecting my community to mental health services, addressing stigma within our culture, and instilling belief in the available services is paramount.

Translating this to a public relations standpoint, the act of linking underrepresented communities to essential services and conveying the authentic narrative of DEI is an imperative for all PR professionals across various organizations.

In this blog, I intend to delve into the intricacies of community and connection within prominent companies. Through this exploration, I aspire to guide others in engaging with this critical topic, shedding light on the significant influence of PR on individuals’ mental health, and emphasizing the importance of authentic representation throughout the media.