Created by the Office for Diversity and Inclusion, The Common Thread is an online toolkit designed to challenge, engage and stimulate self-inquiry in order to facilitate greater inclusivity and understanding. All four modules of The Common Thread, which were created to be utilized without the need for subject matter expertise, are now available to UAB faculty, staff and students at uab.edu/theCommonThread. The modules invite the UAB community to explore the concept of inclusivity, particularly within the landscape of UAB Medicine.
“UAB is at its best when our many diverse voices are heard,” said Mona Fouad, M.D., MPH, senior associate dean for Diversity and Inclusion. “As departments and units complete each module, they’ll gain skills that are usable in everyday situations, both on an individual and an institutional level.”
The modules include Building Belonging, Understanding Bias, Cultural Competency and Conflict Resolution. Each one is available in two formats: a downloadable PowerPoint presentation and a series of TED Talk-style videos featuring UAB speakers, which can be played in lieu of a presentation. Each module also includes downloadable discussion sheets and citations in order to facilitate engagement.
The Office for Diversity and Inclusion is currently visiting each department to present one of the modules during one of their Grand Rounds. Several departments, including Anesthesiology, Biochemistry, Emergency Medicine, Genetics, and OB/GYN have already participated in at least one module.
“The Common Thread has provided a meaningful foundation and jumping-off point for creating greater inclusivity within UAB Medicine,” Fouad said. “My hope is that wide-scale adoption of the toolkit will help us continue to pursue our mission as a world-class academic medical center.”