The Ellison Model Inclusive Leadership Framework provides three collective pathways to individuals and organizations seeking ways to strengthen their sense of belonging within the workplace. The specific knowledge base and skills include improving your Equity & Racial Intelligence (RI), Conflict Resolution Skills, and Leadership Acumen. The Ellison Model Institute for Equity & Inclusion offers an inclusive leadership certification using the framework. Becoming an inclusive leader and organization requires the embodiment of the outcome you seek. Accordingly, the framework is always reflective and introspective and consistently works toward reframing the individual’s disposition of the heart. The Ellison Model Inclusive Leadership Framework uses a transformative approach to move individuals and organizations from diversity to unity to an inclusive community.
Effective leadership results in growth and development for individuals and communities. It can be seen as maintaining a progressive mindset. Progress invigorates the human spirit and makes us feel alive. It is movement, action, and interaction that bring about a sense of accomplishment. In progress, we find ambition, creativity, innovation, and, most importantly, solutions. We measure success by progress. On the other hand, stagnation is demotivating and unfulfilling. Stagnation attempts to kill the drive to learn, innovate, and solve.
Stagnation in an individual’s life causes a reaction of flight (running from the challenge) or fight (engaging in the process to overcome and grow to the next level). This reminds me of the adage, “You don’t go through, you grow through.” Most individuals desire progress over stagnation (life over death), even in their most stagnate position, by taking leadership or expecting those in leadership positions to help move them forward. If not, hopes, dreams, and promises diminish (or die) for individuals and their communities. What is important about the need to survive is ensuring that an inclusive community building approach, and not just personal gain, motivates the individual toward progress.