Ripples of Inclusion: Carrie M. Sawyer on Transforming Curiosity Into Action

In a time when many organizations are looking to deepen their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the path from "wanting to help" to "taking action" can often feel daunting. This week, NBC Palm Springs welcomed international bestselling author and human-centered design expert Carrie M. Sawyer to discuss her latest book, "Ripples of Inclusion," and how it serves as a roadmap for modern advocates.

Sawyer, who brings over 20 years of experience to the table, emphasizes that the journey toward a more inclusive society begins with a simple, yet brave, premise: it is okay to not have all the answers.

The Power of the Question

The foundation of "Ripples of Inclusion" is built upon the real-world inquiries of 700 people from across the United States. Sawyer found that while many individuals have a fundamental desire to create a better world, they are often paralyzed by a fear of appearing uninformed.

"Sometimes we feel like we have to know everything and we feel kind of like dumb and intimidated when we don't," Sawyer explained. "This book is based on 700 people who asked the question and were brave enough to come out of their shell and out of their fear to say, 'Hey, you know what? I don't know about this thing and I want to.'"

Her research revealed a significant gap in understanding regarding how racism and exclusion manifest in daily life. By meeting people exactly where they are, Sawyer aims to provide a "simple and easy" entry point to dismantling systemic issues and restoring lost human connections.

Six Steps to Allyship

While the book outlines six specific strategies for effective allyship, Sawyer highlights one as the most critical: the willingness to interrupt.

Meaningful change happens in the small moments—the "ripples"—where an individual chooses to lean in rather than look away. According to Sawyer, interrupting can take many forms:

• Asking for Clarification: "I don't actually understand why that joke is funny."

• Raising Your Voice: Speaking up when someone is being excluded from a conversation.

• Choosing Silence: Intentionally stepping back to allow other voices to lead.

• Direct Intervention: Challenging why certain people aren't invited to the table.

"We have so much power in this world to make things better to create that connection," Sawyer said. "It always starts with us in our own intention and our own unwillingness to lean in and do better."

Empowering the Next Generation of Advocates

Sawyer’s approach is rooted in human-centered design, a discipline that prioritizes empathy and compassion. By focusing on the "human experience" rather than just policy, her work helps allies move past the "curiosity" phase and into a space of active, daily advocacy.

For those looking to learn more about the book, her upcoming speaking engagements, or DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) strategies for the workplace, Sawyer encourages visitors to connect through her digital platform.

"It’s about helping people make those connections where that connection is lost," Sawyer noted.

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