Tea Time

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The DEISJ Committee is thrilled to introduce “Tea Time,” our new pre-recorded video series dedicated to fostering open, inclusive conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across our global organisation and within the field of personality assessment.

What is Tea Time? Tea Time is a series of pre-recorded sessions where colleagues from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of our organisation come together to discuss the multifaceted DEISJ challenges and opportunities we encounter. Each episode aims to tackle a range of issues, from addressing personal experiences, systemic biases in personality assessment tools to cultivating an inclusive organisation that honors diverse perspectives and equitable practices.

Why Tea Time? Colloquially, the term “spill the tea” is a phrase used to describe sharing juicy or important gossip, secrets, or the latest news with someone else. It suggests revealing information that is generally not known to others, often involving details about someone’s private life or behind-the-scenes events. The phrase originated in Black drag culture in the United States and was popularised in mainstream media through shows like “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” which has a huge international fanbase in countries where English pop culture has a significant impact. The term has also been adapted into local culture and slang in countries where English isn’t the primary language but often remains recognisable in its meaning. 

In our field, influenced by a myriad of cultural and societal biases, it is crucial to embrace a global understanding of DEISJ and member experiences. Through Tea Time, we aim to broaden our perspectives, challenge these biases, and implement meaningful changes that promote equity not only within our organisation but in the services and research we provide worldwide.

How Can You Participate?

• Watch and Reflect: Episodes will be available on our internal network for all members, regardless of their location. We encourage everyone to watch these sessions and reflect on the discussions. In the future, we hope to include multiple translations to be more accessible. 
• Engage in Follow-up Discussions: Accompanying each episode, we send out a survey asking for reflections on the episode and any questions you might have. If you find yourself feeling “uncomfortable” that is a good thing! DEISJ conversations necessarily stir up complex feelings. 
• Suggest Topics and Speakers: What DEISJ issues resonate with you, perhaps from a cultural or regional perspective? We welcome your suggestions for future topics or speakers who can provide diverse, inclusive viewpoints.
• Share Your Story: If you have personal experiences or professional insights related to DEISJ challenges specific to your region or our industry, please consider contributing to future episodes. Your unique perspective is invaluable. 
• Disclaimer: Even though episodes are pre-recorded, they are largely unscripted. Aside from agreeing on a topic and few questions for prompting, we usually do these in one take in 15-20 minutes. Biscuit-sized. Participants still have a chance to review the episode as feeling safe-enough is very important.

Where and When? Episodes will become available in our internal network as they are filmed. 

This series represents an important step towards building a more equitable, inclusive, and culturally sensitive organization. We look forward to your participation in Tea Time, as we engage in these critical, enriching conversations together.

Warm regards,

Ksera Dyette, Psy.D.
DEISJ Committee Chair

Ex Officio – SPA Board of Trustees
Society for Personality Assessment 

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