EmpowerFi’s Post

Reviewing the data on representation and economic impact: #Houston’s vibrant #Hispanic or #Latino community constitutes 44.5% of the population. Yet, our diverse group makes up only 16.7% of our city’s elected officials. This striking contrast raises essential questions about representation in our civic institutions. Further, a recent report (found at X Strategic Solutions | Karlos Lopez) reveals the astounding economic contribution of the Latino community to Houston’s economy – $139.5 billion in 2021 alone, equaling the entire GDP of Arkansas. 😲 As a strategist and advocate for inclusive growth, I believe these figures highlight the need for dialogue on representation that mirrors our demographic diversity. How can we ensure that our #leadership reflects the constituents it serves? Join the conversation and share your perspectives on how we can work together to build a more representative and economically empowered future for Houston. #RepresentationMatters #EconomicEmpowerment #HoustonDiversity #HoustonBusiness #HoustonLatinos #LatinoOwnedBusiness #SmallBusiness #HoustonSmallBusiness #HispanicOwnedBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness #LGBTOwnedBusiness

Interesting reflection on the role of arts and culture in driving transformational change in cities:  "Arts, culture and design play an important, generative role in advancing social outcomes including belonging, civic infrastructure and community participation. There is deep, accepted value in the ways artists and culture bearers lead that type of work; it’s not transactional, its transformational and relationship oriented." Worth holding up as Vancouver reflects on its budget priorities, and the transformative role its Culture/Shift plan can continue to make: https://lnkd.in/gTB7YzyZ

As today's political theater attacks the relevance, significance and importance of #DEI, my heart is warmed seeing this post from my alma mater The University of Notre Dame. True colors are beginning to show, as organizations and individuals are walking back their commitment to #DEI, proving their interest was mostly performative. #DEI must be interwoven into the fabric and DNA of an organization, be a foundational pillar in the organization's vission and mission, and not be viewed as a separate program or initiative. Organizational leaders in #DEI must have roles that contribute to vision and mission achievement across the core business functions that create business value, else they will be on the chopping block when the market turns and costs need to be cut. When #DEI is run as a program or an initiative, the end is inevitably in sight.

The Urban Minds blog is back! This month, one of our Development Coordinators, Devesh Vaswani, discusses the McMansion—a popularized suburban house that has come to symbolize American culture and consumerism. Click here to read the blog: https://lnkd.in/gKXHbKKm

Yesterday, I wrote and delivered this national trends report to my local Goose Creek, SC Cultural Arts Commission. This report offers insights into emerging trends in the arts sector focusing on community engagement, equity, accessibility, and supporting diverse leadership within the arts. While some recommendations are tailored specifically to Goose Creek, such as supporting local arts-based businesses and making arts spaces more accessible, the overarching themes of inclusivity, equitable practices, and the importance of community engagement are universally applicable. This report encourages communities everywhere to evaluate their arts programming and initiatives through these lenses, suggesting that even those outside Goose Creek could find valuable strategies and ideas to apply locally. Whether it's diversifying the types of art presented, ensuring equitable pay and contracts for artists, or enhancing accessibility for all community members, there's a wealth of insights that can inspire positive changes in arts communities nationwide. #ArtsInnovation #CommunityArts #EquitableArts #CulturalTrends #ArtsAccessibility #InclusiveArts #LocalArtsImpact #CreativeCommunities #ArtsAdvocacy #GooseCreekArts

Brooklyn: A Flourishing Hub for Businesses & Families Brooklyn offers an exciting blend for businesses and families alike! The renowned Brooklyn Children's Museum and Waterfront Museum ignite curiosity in all ages. These cultural centers are also fantastic for exploring Brooklyn's diverse neighborhoods. Expanding your business or relocating your family? We're experts in connecting you with thriving Brooklyn communities! Comment below & tell us your favorite Brooklyn neighborhood! Let's discuss your real estate goals. #BrooklynRealEstate #BusinessGrowth #FamilyFriendly

In a polarized world, where the public square has become increasingly hostile, how do we continue to make progress on the things we are called to build? Join us as Baroness Philippa Stroud identifies the steps needed to renew culture, starting with healthy institutions. Drawing on her work with the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship, Stroud will discuss how policymakers can foster changes in society that ensure that citizens can take hold of the opportunities in front of them and develop the personal resilience to serve over decades. RSVP: https://lnkd.in/dUUBjE6D

I just finished reading the City of Charlotte 2040 Comprehensive policy plan and I must say it is a pretty good and well informed city development framework. I am curious to see how well it will or is being executed and how true it remains to its core values and principle. https://lnkd.in/etsSgAC4

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The holiday marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the freedom of all enslaved people, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a time for reflection, education, and celebration of African American culture and achievements. DRE #02227287 #juneteenth #summer #luxuryhomes #luxury #luxuryhome #ocrealtor #ocrealestate #orangecountyrealestate #sdrealtor #sdrealestate #sandiegorealestate #oc #orangecounty #sd #sandiego #interiordesign #design #investing #investor #investmentproperty #property #marketing #business #career #job #jobs #wealth #wealthmanagement #management #manager #homesforsale #seller #buyer #tips #realestatetips #travel #travelagent

Black-led Organizations Taking Up Space in Planning Urban Planning has long been criticized for its lack of diversity, resulting in exclusionary policies and urban design that fails to reflect the needs and experiences of Black community members. But change is on the horizon! On January 22, 2024, an old friend of mine, Leighana Mais will be participating in a panel discussion featuring the thought-provoking mini-documentary "Nothing for us, without us". This documentary delves deep into the systemic racism embedded within planning practices across Canada. I am thrilled to see Black-led organizations examining past injustices and collaborating on actionable solutions to shape our neighborhoods for the better. This event is a critical opportunity for us to challenge the status quo and pave the way for more inclusive and equitable urban planning and design in Toronto. If you're in Toronto, I strongly encourage you to register and attend this groundbreaking event. Let's come together to shake up the way we approach urban planning and policy development in Toronto and beyond. Together, we can create equitable cities that truly serve and uplift our Black community. Register to attend here: https://lnkd.in/eqAxMRgc Check out the mini-documentary trailer here: https://lnkd.in/ecZ9KXk4 #UrbanPlanning #Equity #Inclusion #CommunityEngagement #Toronto #SocialJustice #ChangeMakers