Jane Elliott, with over five decades of experience in global diversity education, stands tall as one of the most powerful voices in the domain of diversity and inclusion. Her renowned 'Blue Eyes & Brown Eyes Exercise', conceived as a reaction to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., aimed to teach students about the raw and uncomfortable reality of discrimination. This trailblazing experiment brought the stark experience of prejudice to the forefront, capturing the nation's attention in 1968.
Originating from the humble beginnings of a small school in Randall, Iowa, where she started teaching in 1953, Jane always prioritised discussions on discrimination. Her unwavering stance made waves in 1968 when she showcased her eye-colour exercise on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Despite facing substantial backlash, Jane's resilience ensured the continuity of the study, marking her as a pioneer in modern-day diversity training.
By the 1980s, Jane had become an indispensable diversity trainer, collaborating with corporate giants like General Electric, Exxon, AT&T, and IBM. Moreover, her expertise was sought after by prestigious institutions such as the FBI, IRS, US Navy, and the Department of Education. In addition to her hands-on training, she authored the book "A Collar in My Pocket: The Blue Eyes Brown Eyes Exercise", a testament to her dedication to the cause.
The gravitas of Jane's work resonates far and wide. In 1990, a study by Utah State University found that attendees of her diversity lectures overwhelmingly felt the sessions were profoundly impactful. Countless individuals credit Jane's insights with profoundly changing their perceptions on race and discrimination. Jane's accolades and accomplishments are vast. Notably, in 2019, she was awarded the honorary degree ‘Doctor of Humane Letters’ by CSU Bakersfield. Furthermore, in 2016, the BBC honoured her by adding her name to their annual list of 100 Women. With mentions in esteemed lists such as McGraw-Hill's timeline of 30 notable educators, alongside greats like Confucius and Maria Montessori, Elliott's influence is undeniable.
Media outlets have constantly recognised her pioneering efforts. From multiple appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show to being featured as "Person of the Week" by Peter Jennings on ABC, Jane's voice has always found a prominent platform. Documentaries, books, and TV features dedicated to her work, like A Class Divided, further underline her tremendous impact. In conclusion, Jane Elliott remains an unmatched beacon in the realm of diversity and inclusion. Her thought-provoking lectures and exercises challenge audiences, urging them to confront their biases and rethink race and discrimination. Her legacy continues to inspire, educate, and catalyze change worldwide.
