Unpacking Calls for Recommitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Recently, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus urged corporate America to recommit to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. Invariant’s latest Dialogue for Change discussed caucus goals, unpacked expectations for Corporate America, and outlined a path forward.
Invariant’s Nicole Venable moderated a conversation with Vincent Evans, Executive Director of the CBC, and Dr. Angel Colón-Rivera, Executive Director of the CHC.
Here are five key takeaways:
1. Take a leading role. Don’t wait on legislation or executive actions to force inclusion and representation — instead, companies should lead by example. America is becoming multicultural, and if decision-makers of leading companies don’t reflect what the country looks like, corporate America will lose out from a business perspective.
2. Share your company’s full story. According to Evans, highlighting the complete arc of your story is critical when speaking with congressional stakeholders. Talk about what you’re doing well, be candid about where you have more work, and share the internal benchmarks you’re using to measure progress on DEI goals. Consider inviting Members to visit with your employees and learn firsthand what you’re doing.
3. Speak in numbers. Dr. Colón-Rivera highlighted the importance of quantifying your impact and using data to demonstrate what you’re doing to improve. Knowing where you stand regarding statistics like the number of people of color on your board or in leadership positions is the first step to change. Quantify things like diversity in your supply chain or the professional services you hire. Sharing data signifies that you have a way in which to hold yourself accountable.
4. Don’t ignore calls to recommit to DEI. While there is pushback on DEI initiatives now, the pendulum will swing back. Members of the CHC and CBC will have gavels in their hands, and they will legislate on these matters. Start telling your story sooner rather than later.
5. Keep the door open. Both speakers highlighted that the calls on corporate America are not meant to be “gotcha moments.” The goal is to have ongoing open and honest conversations. That means you shouldn’t stop at one meeting or response. Rather, build relationships over time and provide updates on the innovative solutions you’re implementing.
Watch the discussion here:
