Getting Real on Inclusion and Diversity

ROCK Diversity (formerly Diversity Trainers Plus—DTP) was founded by Maureen Brown in 1997. Our signature program GRID (Getting Real on Inclusion and Diversity) targets everyday practices, obstacles and ways of thinking at the root of systems that exclude and become oppressive to those considered ‘different’ because of characteristics such as gender; race; the way they think; their family status; culture or sexual orientation.

GRID offers a framework to understand the status quo and practical, innovative tools to address it.

The organization asks the ultimate question: “Let’s get real…Is what we’re doing making us more inclusive? If we think we are inclusive, whose voice is informing this belief? And if we know we are not inclusive, how do we fix it?”

GRID starter and maintenance programs equip it to answer at a systemic and individual level, using our specialized supports for managers, team leads, advisors and supervisors; virtual coaching and training; webinars, facilitated discussions and learning opportunities that build confidence to take action.

Looking to get real on diversity and inclusion?

Maureen Brown

ROCK Founder and Chief Content Expert

I entered the Diversity and Inclusion space 30 years ago, fueled by a passion for justice, equity, and inclusion. I have had the opportunity to fulfill this vision through training; strategic planning; community-based research; Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI™) assessments; and, creating supports for implementing Diversity Plans. I have done this work in sectors such as banking; retail; First Responder; government; post-secondary; unions; manufacturing; and healthcare. Before ROCK I worked for 11 years at the Ontario Human Rights Commission and the Anti-Racism Secretariat as a communications specialist.

With the launch of ROCK, our new brand, I am converting the experience I have been privileged to acquire—plus the best of innovative new approaches to diversity—into tools, resources and learning opportunities that build confidence and in-house capability.

ROCK’s GRID (Get Real on Inclusion and Diversity) program takes a clear-eyed, practical, lets-get-to-the-heart-of-the-matter approach to diversity and inclusion. I believe that this is a key component in dismantling exclusion systems that continue to plague us.

Systems begin with people, so even as we wrestle with tough, complicated issues I strive to model the respect and empathy I encourage people to practice in the face of diversity.

A sense of humor goes a long way too. I see myself as a ‘chronicler of the human condition’ (I am an English Major and former journalist!), so I love to share stories and experiences that make diversity and inclusion real, down to earth, and relatable. I do this because even when getting real hurts, I want people to see the possibilities that come with taking the right and courageous steps true inclusivity demands.