Meet Desiree

Professional woman with glasses, hoop earrings, and a necklace, wearing a black blazer, with curly hair, looking at the camera.

Desiree Delonia is a nationally recognized DEIA strategist, author, and speaker committed to building cultures rooted in belonging, accountability, and humanity.

She serves as the DEIA Director at Disability Rights California, the largest protection and advocacy organization in the nation. Her work focuses on leadership development, workplace culture, and creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and supported.

Desiree’s voice is shaped by lived experience. She is a widowed Black mother, a survivor, a leader, and a woman who has rebuilt her life through faith, resilience, and purpose.

She is the author of:

  • Rooted in Belonging: A Black Woman’s Guide to Cultivating Inclusive Workplaces

  • Holy Detours: Running From God, Returning to Purpose

  • Kristen Michelle: Full of Joy, Full of Me

Her work speaks to those doing the hard work of change, especially those who have carried culture without recognition.

Desiree does not just talk about belonging. She builds it