Bio
Janna Hines’ experience in Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) is rooted in her desire to create holistic and accountable approaches to advancing equity and she brings that to her Consultant role at Be Equitable. She has more than eight years of experience managing IDEA strategy development and implementation, programs, and community engagement, and more than nine years of experience delivering IDEA keynotes and training. Prior to her time at Be Equitable, she provided strategic guidance on IDEA data and initiatives to healthcare executives in an effort to create more equitable outcomes for patients of various backgrounds. She received a BA in Social Work and is a CQ® Certified Facilitator in Unconscious Bias and Cultural Intelligence. Janna is also speaker on racial justice and faith through her consultancy “Of Hope & Hunger.” She creates original video and written content specifically on the intersections of Christianity and civil rights movements.
Infrequently Asked Questions
Who were your role models growing up? How do you think that’s impacted your life now?
My parents. I tried to emulate my mother’s wisdom, love of knowledge, and the tenacity and my father’s boldness, oratory skills and his ability to tactfully speak truth to power. They’ve both impacted my life by modeling all that’s required to live a life based on faith, love, and service.
What belief took you the longest to unlearn?
The idea that niceness would save me. However, no matter how nice, quiet, and composed I was when engaging in justice conversations, there were still individuals who misunderstood, criticized and opposed me. I learned that in advancing IDEA I cannot shrink or shapeshift who I am to accommodate others’ perceptions of me.
Do you think people can really change?
I think people can change if they’re humble. Letting go of long-held beliefs and behaviors is scary, vulnerable work. The growth, community, and integrity I’ve experienced after making those changes are worth every discomfort. Changing for the sake of justice and inclusion is worth it.
Follow the below link to access the deck of Infrequently Asked Question cards.