A Fresh Take on Holiday Celebrations: Making Everyone Feel Welcome

In a world where diversity and inclusion are often talked about but not always practiced, one group found a way to make their holiday celebrations more meaningful. Instead of sticking to the usual catered lunch and gift exchange, they decided to do something different. They invited everyone to bring a dish from their cultural background. This simple change turned the event into a vibrant potluck, filled with a variety of flavors and stories. The group also made sure the timing worked for everyone. They scheduled the gathering so that teachers, staff, and students could all attend without rushing or missing important tasks. This thoughtful planning made the event more enjoyable and inclusive. One of the most impactful additions was the gratitude board. Here, people could publicly thank each other for their contributions. This small gesture had a big impact. It made people feel seen and valued, which in turn made them more engaged and collaborative. Holiday gatherings can teach us a lot about leadership. Who do we invite to the table? Who feels welcome when they arrive? These questions are crucial, especially in today's climate where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are often met with resistance.Critics argue that DEI efforts are unnecessary or divisive. Some institutions have even scaled back their programs. However, treating DEI as a checkbox or a seasonal gesture does more harm than good. Token efforts, like adding one cultural dish to a menu or issuing a generic statement, do not create a sense of belonging. They create the illusion of inclusion. Real DEI is about building structures that make inclusion sustainable. It starts with avoiding major meetings or deadlines during religious observances. It also involves creating inclusive traditions by inviting input from everyone on how to celebrate holidays and milestones. Year-round recognition is also important. People should feel appreciated not just during the holidays, but throughout the year. These practices are not just nice to have. They drive measurable outcomes. When people feel they belong, they are more engaged, more likely to stay, and more innovative. Institutions thrive when their members feel valued and included. The holidays remind us of values like gratitude and empathy. For leaders, these are not just seasonal sentiments. They are strategic imperatives. In a climate where anti-DEI sentiment undermines progress, leaning into inclusion is not just the right thing to do. It is the smart thing to do. As we gather around tables this season, we should ask ourselves: Who is missing? Who feels welcome? And what can we do to make belonging real all year long? The ultimate test of leadership is not how well we decorate the table, but how consistently we make space for all to thrive.