Lillian B. Hawkins is a renowned diversity, equity, and inclusion advocate with over 18 years of experience in the field. She has worked with numerous organizations to create inclusive environments and promote equal opportunities for all. Lillian is passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to embrace diversity and foster a culture of inclusion.
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Lillian B. Hawkins is a dedicated professional in the field of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). She has a wide range of expertise as a DEIB educator, inclusive team builder, and leadership consultant. Lillian was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, where she not only fulfills her professional roles but also serves as a caregiver for her elderly mother. She takes pride in her roles as a mother, sister, daughter, and aunt.
Lillian's passion for equity and inclusion stems from her personal experiences of being "othered" as a bi-racial girl. Raised in a single-parent home by her white mother, who faced disownment for marrying a black man, Lillian developed a strong equity lens from an early age. Her commitment to equity, inclusion, and justice further deepened when she transferred from a diverse high school in the central area of Seattle, which had limited resources, to a Northend school with abundant resources but lacking in DEIB support for students of color.
To address this gap, Lillian initiated a Black Student Union (BSU) as her senior project. The BSU provided a vital space, sense of belonging, and community for students of color. Lillian is grateful that the BSU continues to thrive and has even facilitated the establishment of seven other affinity groups, working towards increasing DEIB for all students.
Lillian's educational journey includes an AA degree from Shoreline Community College and a BA from the University of Washington in Seattle, where she majored in Social Science and Communication with honors. She is also a proud graduate of the Harvard Trade Union Program.
In addition to her academic achievements, Lillian actively participates in her community as an elected Precinct Committee Officer (PCO) in her legislative district. She is a founding member of the Washington Equity Now Alliance (WENA), which played a significant role in the reinstatement of affirmative action in Washington State.
With 18 years of experience in the public sector, Lillian has had numerous opportunities to lead DEIB workshops, provide consulting, coaching, and support to colleagues, leaders, and organizations. Her expertise and guidance have helped these entities advance their DEIB initiatives and create more inclusive environments.
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