My DEI Story: Laura Uttley

“Where to begin? Where to begin?” I repeat, staring at a blank screen. “What is my DEI story?” Everything I write seems thoroughly inadequate given the weight and force of current events. I am incredibly privileged. I am a White, able-bodied, cisgender female with an advanced degree. I grew up in a small, island town in Rhode Island. Where do I begin?

I begin with my grandparents, who helped me develop an awareness and understanding of my privilege. Their stories and actions influenced me significantly. My maternal grandmother shared being ashamed to invite friends over in elementary school because their house lacked indoor plumbing. Her brother encouraged her and supported their family so she could finish high school. My paternal grandmother was dedicated to service and her community—caring for her siblings and family, regularly volunteering, and engaging in her church. Each of my grandparents shared their experiences and values, instilling a sense of responsibility to leverage my privilege to better my community and to practice gratitude.

In college, I learned the value and need for inclusivity. I experienced two head traumas within a week. The post-concussion syndrome that followed manifested as loss of concentration, dizziness, headaches, light and noise sensitivity, and fatigue. Quickly, the life I knew as a student-athlete ended. I withdrew from school for the semester and went home to heal. When I returned to campus four months later, I was forced to quit swimming—the community to which I belonged no longer accepted me. I began the process of rebuilding—my cognitive ability, my sense of self, and friendships.

My DEI story is rooted in self-awareness—understanding my privilege and knowing the considerable impact of exclusivity. My DEI story is a promise to act on the lessons my grandparents taught and values they imparted to contribute to my community. I do so by listening to my friends and colleagues, to neighbors and strangers, to new and different voices to acknowledge and appreciate their diverse experiences. I actively listen, learn and broaden my perspective.

In her poem Where to Begin, Cleo Wade wrote, “Do not be afraid to say, ‘I know I can’t do everything, but I can do something.’” I can be present and engage in WGR DEI Committee meetings and opportunities to continue learning. I can highlight the need for change and foster a DEI initiative in my workplace. I can facilitate conversations with experts for students to promote DEI in government relations through American University’s Public Affairs and Advocacy Institute and the undergraduate course I teach. I can begin with my family, at my own kitchen table, encouraging them to listen and motivating them to change behaviors. I can begin with empathy and openness.

The WGR “My DEI Story” Blogs are featured monthly, highlighting the story of a DEI Committee Member or supporting ally. These blogs are designed to shine a light on the amazing diversity that exists within our community, and to recognize that EVERYONE has a DEI Story. Interested in having your story featured? Please send an email to dei.wgr@gmail.com.