Courage Is Not a Strategy: Moving from Awareness to Action in Equity Work

Back in March, we explored what it means to lead through uncertainty. It’s a reality many of us are still navigating—where political tides are shifting, budgets are tightening, and equity efforts are being scrutinized, stalled, or altogether dismantled. In times like these, courage is often held up as the antidote. And while courage is vital, it’s not enough.

Courage is not a strategy. It’s the spark - not the structure.

We see it often in equity work: bold statements, powerful panels, moving stories. These are meaningful expressions of awareness—and yes, they take courage. But awareness without a plan is where far too many organizations stop. It’s easy to admire the problem, to hold space for the pain, to publish the statement. It’s harder to operationalize equity in ways that shift power and policy.

The question isn’t whether you care. It’s whether your care is translating into action.

Because while courage might get you in the room, it won’t build the framework for change. That requires something less flashy and more sustainable: a strategy. A willingness to audit current practices. A commitment to measurable goals. A plan to invest in education, equity-centered leadership, and systems that hold people accountable.

And the good news? There’s no better time than now to start.

Summer is often considered a “slow” season in our field - but for those truly committed to justice, it’s a season of preparation. It’s when visionary organizations take a breath, step back, and do the hard internal work. Not because the spotlight’s on - but because they’re serious about showing up differently when it is.

So if you’re leading a team, managing a program, or steering your organization’s direction, ask yourself:

What equity work did we start that hasn’t moved beyond dialogue?

Where are we relying on the same voices, the same perspectives, the same patterns?

Are we investing in the tools, training, and talent that will bring our values to life?

The halfway point of the year is a perfect moment to pause and recalibrate. This is the time to center equity in your fall planning—not as an add-on, but as a foundation. Because inclusive, affirming systems don’t happen by accident. They’re built—with intention, humility, and follow-through.

Courage may be the call. But strategy is the response. Let’s Get to Work'

This summer, I’m partnering with organizations across the country to offer customized equity assessments, speaker sessions, and strategy consultations that help teams go beyond good intentions. If your team is ready to move from courageous conversation to coordinated action, let’s talk.

Now booking for summer and early fall.

Let’s co-create something that makes the next six months count.

Onward!

NK