Bias was designed in, let's design it out.

I was inspired this morning in a workshop entitled "Addressing bias in the workplace – A kōrero with Hiraina Tangiora" with three heavyweight mana wāhine. I have noted my key takeaways from each speaker below.

Kathie Irwin, MNZM, PHD, MInstD - Kathie Irwin & Associates, Former Director Māori Development at Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission

• Unapologetically Māori
• Bias was designed in, we can design it out.
• Say no to racism, say no to bigotry, say no to microaggressions - call it out! 
• Have fun in your pathway, and make it lighter!
• Advice: Do your homework, do your due diligence, and back yourself!

Māhina Melbourne - Group Manager, Ministry of Education

• For none, but ourselves can set ourselves free - Bob Marley
• Build strength within myself, create boundaries, well-being - tinana, wairua, whanau, hinengaro.
• Who inspires you? who are the people that make you feel like you?
• Kia tū kahikatea - our strength comes from standing as a collective.
• Bias elimination is an inter-generational journey.
• Whanaungatanga is your power - Atawhai Tibble
• Advice: Use your network

Professor Rawinia Higgins FRSNZ - Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington

• There is bias (cultural, sexism, ageism, etc), and there are microaggressions - so what are we going to do about it?
• Bias is about power, and how do we gain that power? and why at the expense of everyone else?
• Equity is not the same as Tangata Tiriti
• Advice: Work collectively