Belonging in Utah: Findings from Community Conversations with Women of Color

In this episode, we discuss a recently released white paper titled “Belonging in Utah: Findings from Community Conversations with Women of Color.” The white paper draws from seven focus groups with Women of Color along the Wasatch Front to identify shared and community-specific themes related to their experiences. The findings reveal both interconnected challenges and those unique to specific racial and ethnic communities. The goal of this work is to elevate diverse perspectives and encourage leaders and community members to consider additional insights that foster greater inclusion and belonging throughout the state. Understanding what helps Utah women of color build a sense of belonging shows us not only where the state is progressing, but where meaningful work still needs to be done. In today’s episode, we’ll break down what belonging looks like, why it matters, and how these insights can guide efforts to make Utah a better place for everyone. 

Dr. Susan Madsen, an Extension Professor of Leadership at Utah State University and the Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project and A Bolder Way Forward, is joined by two guests. First, Kolene Anderson, former Associate Director at the Utah Women and Leadership Project. Second, Nadia Cates, former Multicultural Outreach Coordinator at the Utah Women and Leadership Project.