Dealing with Dignity: Hiring and Recruitment to Amplify New Voices in the Evaluation Field

Abstract Information: The demonstration explores the critical intersection of racial equity, multiethnic issues in evaluation, and amplifying voices within the evaluation field, emphasizing the concept of dignity throughout. In an era marked by heightened awareness of systemic inequities and the imperative for social justice, this presentation offers a timely examination of how organizations can adopt radical approaches to recruitment, hiring, and staff retention to foster greater diversity, inclusion, and equity in evaluation practice while upholding the dignity of all individuals involved. At its core, the demonstration underscores the pressing need to break down barriers and build inclusive communities within the evaluation profession. Drawing on insights from research, practice, and lived experiences, the presentation highlights the ways in which traditional hiring practices often perpetuate systemic biases and exclude marginalized voices from participating fully in evaluation work, thus compromising their dignity. By challenging these norms and advocating for radical recruitment strategies, organizations have the opportunity to dismantle existing power structures and create pathways for underrepresented individuals to enter and thrive in the field while preserving their dignity. Central to the demonstration is a focus on racial equity and the importance of centering the experiences and perspectives of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) in evaluation practice. Through a critical examination of hiring processes, the presentation unpacks the ways in which racial biases manifest in recruitment and hiring decisions, perpetuating disparities and hindering efforts to achieve equity within organizations, thus undermining the dignity of BIPOC evaluators. By adopting radical recruitment strategies that prioritize diversity, authenticity, and inclusion, organizations can amplify the voices of BIPOC evaluators and create more representative and responsive evaluation teams while affirming their dignity. Furthermore, the demonstration explores the complexities of multiethnic issues in evaluation and the need for nuanced approaches to addressing diversity within the field. Recognizing the diverse experiences and identities within communities of color, the presentation emphasizes the importance of intersectionality and cultural humility in recruitment and hiring practices to safeguard the dignity of all individuals involved. By embracing a holistic understanding of identity and actively seeking out diverse perspectives, organizations can ensure that their evaluation teams reflect the rich tapestry of experiences and expertise present in the communities they serve. Finally, the presentation highlights the transformative potential of amplifying voices within the evaluation field while upholding their dignity. By creating spaces for marginalized voices to be heard, valued, and empowered, organizations can foster a culture of belonging and collaboration that drives innovation and advances equity in evaluation practice, while respecting the dignity of all individuals involved. Through case studies, best practices, and interactive discussions, the presentation equips attendees with practical strategies and tools for implementing radical recruitment, hiring, and staff retention strategies that promote racial equity, address multiethnic issues, and amplify voices within the evaluation profession, all while honoring the dignity of every individual.