2024 DE&I Year in Review

2024 was a year of meaningful milestones and beautiful celebrations for our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. From honoring cultural heritage months to fostering open conversations and providing opportunities for growth, we strived to build a workplace that celebrates individuality and champions inclusion. In this blog, we’re highlighting the events, achievements, and moments of reflection that made this year so impactful. Join us in looking back at how Actabl came together to learn, connect, and honor the diverse voices within our community.

Black History Month at Actabl

We kicked off the year in February by celebrating Black History Month with a series of enriching events aimed at fostering education, conversation, and reflection. From weekly trivia to thought-provoking panel discussions and an inspiring keynote speaker, the month offered opportunities for learning, engagement, and honoring the contributions of Black leaders past and present.

• Weekly Historical Facts and Trivia: Throughout February, we shared educational Black History facts and trivia on a dedicated Slack channel. Participants who correctly answered trivia questions were entered into a raffle to win a Black History Month mug!
• (Un)comfortable Conversations Panel: On February 7th, we hosted a safe-space discussion hosted by the DE&I Program Chairs featuring Emmanuel Acho's Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man series. The panel explored crucial yet often-avoided conversations about race to foster understanding and remove barriers to these conversations.
• Keynote Speaker: On February 21st, Sherry Gay-Dagnogo, a Detroit Public Schools Board member and former Michigan State Representative, delivered an inspiring keynote. She highlighted her journey as a trailblazer in education and politics and shared insights on leadership, representation, and advocacy.

Women's History Month at Actabl

March brought a vibrant celebration of Women's History Month at Actabl. With events ranging from empowering workshops to fireside chats with inspiring leaders, we celebrated trailblazing women and created spaces for meaningful conversations on equity, advocacy, and professional growth.

• Leading Ladies Bingo: On March 8th, our committee hosted a virtual bingo event celebrating trailblazing women throughout history. Each bingo card featured fun facts and stories about women who have made groundbreaking achievements, blending entertainment with education to kick off Women’s History Month.
• "Claiming Your Space" Workshop: Midway through March, we hosted an empowering workshop focused on helping women recognize and overcome tendencies to minimize their achievements and voice their voices in professional and personal spaces. Male colleagues were encouraged to participate, fostering understanding and collaboration in advocating for equity and inclusion. The workshop sparked insightful conversations with several women and men sharing stories and experiences.
• Women in the Workplace Fireside Chat: To round out the month, on March 25th, we hosted a panel featuring Neha Ghalsasi, Cristina DeVito from Actabl, and Emily Branton from Radicle Health. The session included candid conversations and actionable strategies for driving workplace equity, highlighting diverse experiences and perspectives in professional growth and advocacy.

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month at Actabl

In May, Actabl honored Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month with events celebrating the rich cultural and historical contributions of APIDA communities. Through interactive activities, cultural explorations, and wellness sessions, the month fostered education and appreciation for diversity within the Actabl community.

• Yoga for Office Workers: To kick off the month, we hosted a yoga session focusing on poses to alleviate stress and counteract the effects of prolonged sitting. Participants of all experience levels were guided through movements designed to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and promote mental clarity, all from the comfort of their home offices.
• Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month Celebration: On May 22nd, we gathered for a fun event featuring a language class offering practical phrases and insights into linguistic diversity, as well as trivia games to test participants' knowledge of Asian Pacific Islander Desi American history and culture. The morning combined education, fun, and celebration of rich heritage!
• Virtual Tour of the Philippines: On our committee confluence page, we shared a virtual tour showcasing the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Philippines. Team members could explore the country’s crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and bustling cities from the comfort of their own homes!

Pride Month at Actabl

Actabl's Pride Month celebrations in June emphasized inclusivity and allyship. Through open dialogues, engaging games, and shared stories, we celebrated the LGBTQ+ community while fostering understanding and connection across our teams.

• Uncomfortable Conversations - Pride Edition: We gathered in early June, providing a safe and inclusive space for participants to engage in open dialogue about the experiences and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Through meaningful conversations, attendees gained insights, shared perspectives, and explored ways to foster allyship and understanding.
• Pride Jeopardy: On June 13th, teams came together to celebrate Pride Month with a spirited game of Pride Jeopardy. This fun and educational event tested participants' knowledge of LGBTQ+ history, culture, and contributions while creating opportunities for learning and connection. It was a blast, and the competition was fierce!
• 3rd Annual Pride Movie Night: To close out the month of Pride celebrations, colleagues joined virtually for the 3rd Annual Pride Movie Night, enjoying a curated film that highlighted LGBTQ+ themes and stories. It’s a fan favorite for a reason! Attendees shared an evening of entertainment and discussion, fostering a deeper appreciation of diverse narratives.

World Mental Health Day at Actabl

In October, Actabl recognized World Mental Health Day with a focus on self-care and awareness. Interactive sessions provided team members with opportunities to reflect, learn, and prioritize mental well-being in both their personal and professional lives.

• Mental Health Awareness Day: To honor Mental Health Awareness Day, the DE&I committee hosted two half-hour sessions focused on taking a break, having fun, and learning about the history of mental health. Participants engaged in an interactive game while gaining insights into the evolution of mental health awareness. It was a powerful reminder to prioritize self-care and mental well-being amidst life’s challenges.

Latin American and Hispanic Heritage Month

In September, there was a fiesta or two celebrating Latin American and Hispanic Heritage Month! Our teams came together for a series of engaging events, from trivia to a social discussion on key Hispanic figures. The month was all about honoring the rich cultural history, traditions, and contributions of Latin American and Hispanic communities.

• Latin American & Hispanic Heritage Trivia: On September 18th, the competition heated up! We hosted a fun and educational trivia game where participants tested their knowledge of Latin American and Hispanic culture, history, and contributions. The event sparked friendly competition, meaningful learning, and of course, left everyone hungry as we explored the rich flavors of the cuisine!
• Dolores Documentary Social: We wrapped up our month of celebration with a Dolores Documentary Social. We watched Dolores, a documentary that highlights the life and legacy of Dolores Huerta, an influential civil rights activist and labor leader. Afterward, our committee hosted a social discussion where attendees reflected on the film and its powerful messages of activism and change.

American Indian Heritage Month at Actabl

November marked Actabl’s celebration of American Indian Heritage Month, honoring the resilience and creativity of Indigenous communities. Through a thought-provoking film discussion and an intimate conversation with artist Lehi ThunderVoice Eagle, we explored Indigenous culture, history, and contemporary artistry.

• Movie Club–Killers of the Flower Moon: On November 13th, the DE&I Committee hosted a Movie Club discussion on Killers of the Flower Moon. Teams explored the film's key themes and its portrayal of historical events affecting Native American communities.
• Conversation with Lehi ThunderVoice Eagle: To close out the month, we welcomed Lehi ThunderVoice Eagle, a Navajo/Totonoc artist, designer, and owner of ThunderVoice Hat Co. Lehi, for a live conversation. Lehi shared stories of his upbringing in the Arizona wilderness and how those experiences shaped his art and brand. The session highlighted the fusion of tradition and modernity in Indigenous artistry, entrepreneurship, and practical ways we can support Indigenous communities.

At Actabl, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is more than just a statement—it’s an integral part of who we are. Through thoughtfully curated events and initiatives, we strive to honor the unique histories, cultures, and experiences that make up our vibrant community. From celebrating the contributions of marginalized groups to fostering open conversations and opportunities for learning, these activities reflect our dedication to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. Together, we continue building a culture of understanding, respect, and growth, ensuring that Actabl remains a place where every voice is heard and every individual thrives.

Want to join the fun? We’re looking for more hands! View our current openings.