Name: Tanesha Williams

Title: Counsel & Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Hometown: Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Time at the DNC: 1.5 years

I recently adopted a beautiful gray cat and her name is Nina Simone!

Tell us about what brings you to this work and your path to working in politics.

Growing up in the beautiful yet tumultuous state of Mississippi, with a mother dedicated to social work, a grandfather preaching, and a grandmother serving others, I inherited a legacy steeped in compassionate advocacy and service. As a Black, lesbian woman hailing from a religiously conservative community, the necessity to foster safe spaces across all lines of difference has been ingrained in my very being. This commitment to creating safe, inclusive environments led me to become a teacher, driven by a desire to nurture children's growth and authenticity. It propelled me into civil rights law, where I championed those systematically harmed, ensuring they knew they had an advocate in their corner. Now, at the DNC, my mission is clear: to help uphold the party's values of inclusion and equity, ensuring that everyone, irrespective of background, has a place at the table. In these turbulent times, the fight for equity and inclusion is more critical than ever, and that's why I'm here.

What is your role at the DNC? What does a typical day look like for you?

My role at the DNC is to architect systems, programs, and processes that foster greater equity, inclusion, and diversity across the board. Each day is dynamic and varied. From facilitating equity and inclusion workshops for state party leaders to spearheading programming for heritage months like Women's History Month, my aim is to infuse every facet of our work with the values of inclusion and equity. No two days are alike; it's a whirlwind of contract reviews, departmental meetings, and collaborations with our dedicated DEI manager, Anushka.

We just finished the first quarter of the year! Can you share some of your wins so far this year?

Absolutely! One of our standout achievements this year has been the successful launch of our Build the Bench program. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cultivate a diverse cohort of young professionals, equipping them with the tools and training to become the next generation of progressive leaders. We selected 12 outstanding individuals from across the nation, and provided them with comprehensive political training, communication skills, and leadership development. As we gear up for crucial elections, having such passionate and prepared individuals ready to champion Democratic values is a significant win for us and the communities we serve.

Can you explain what DEI is, and why it’s needed in politics?

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are more than just buzzwords; they represent the core principles that guide our quest for a fairer, more inclusive society. Diversity in its simplest form means all the ways in which we differ, acknowledging and celebrating each unique identity. Equity ensures fair treatment and access, tailored to the needs of diverse groups, while inclusion creates environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to be their authentic selves. These principles are indispensable in politics, where representation matters deeply. By embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion, we foster trust, informed decision-making, and social connection, while combating inequalities that threaten marginalized communities.

In the fast-paced world of politics, how do you stay grounded?

My grounding comes from a steadfast belief in our collective ability to shape a better world, coupled with a deep connection to the everyday individuals who share in this mission of equity and inclusion. Early morning workouts, traveling, and spending time with loved ones, always always helps me stay centered too!