Why are DEI Initiatives Important?
By Aimee Malgapo
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are essential because they support equal opportunities for everyone in the workplace to succeed and feel included. Injustices and discrimination in the workplace can be avoided when DEI initiatives are practiced. Some examples of DEI initiatives include pay equity analysis, employee resource groups and DEI training.
Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, leading to more creative solutions and enhanced innovation. When people of different backgrounds and unique experiences come together, they can share extraordinary ideas that lead to remarkable results. “Diversity helps us to question our assumptions and open our minds,” Gloria Chen, Adobe's Chief People Officer says. “When you are continuously open to new ideas, you are more adept at change. It becomes like a well-developed muscle.”
When people feel safe, valued, and appreciated, they are willing to work harder and performance is improved in the workplace. DEI efforts build inclusion and strengthen an organization’s purpose, and help push forward meaningful organizational change.
Many individuals have labored arduously to put DEI initiatives in place. The origins of DEI programs begin with the Civil Rights Movement that strived for justice and equality for all. The Civil Rights Movement begin in 1954 and advocated to abolish legalized racial segregation and discrimination in the country. A few inspiration leaders of the Civil Rights Movement include Martin Luther King Jr, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, W.E.B. Du Bois, Thurgood Marshall and Angela Davis. These are a few courageous leaders that devoted their lives to making a difference in their community and the world.
In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson passed the Civil Rights Act which was a landmark law that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin. This was a pivotal moment in history. It ended segregation, prohibited discrimination, strengthened voting rights and energized the women's movement. In the 1980s during Reagan’s presidency, companies shifted from compliance to viewing diversity as a business advantage. Consultants promoted diversity to enhance innovation and global market reach.
DEI initiatives demonstrate a commitment to social justice. Companies with strong DEI practices attract talent and customers who value ethical leadership. While DEI initiatives build a fair, innovative, and high-performing workplace, they also foster a long-term cultural change and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Resources
https://hbr.org/2023/05/how-investing-in-dei-helps-companies-become-more-adaptable
https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/civil-rights-act
https://lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu/features/dei-workplace-why-its-important-company-culture
https://equity.uwmedicine.org/why-dei-is-important-nine-benefits-of-strong-dei-in-the-workplace/
