June 27th 2024.
The Chief Diversity Officer Summit and Honors, hosted by BLACK ENTERPRISE in partnership with The Executive Leadership Council, Fidelity Investments, and Merck, was a resounding success. Held on June 11, 2024, at the prestigious Guastavino's in New York City, the event brought together esteemed leaders who are dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate America.
The Summit kicked off with an opening speech from CEO of BE, Earl "Butch" Graves Jr. He commended the attendees for their unwavering commitment to promoting equal access and solidarity within their organizations, especially during these challenging times. Graves acknowledged the immense role of DEI professionals in reshaping corporate landscapes, even in the face of legislative opposition and setbacks following the tragic death of George Floyd.
Despite the political and legal challenges, Graves urged the corporate community to resist short-sighted pressures and reclaim the narrative. The Summit also celebrated the trailblazing executives who have historically championed DEI and continue to do so, even in the current difficult climate. It was an event that sparked meaningful discussions and aimed to further progress in DEI.
The Summit featured two powerful sessions, led by leaders in the field, who candidly examined the future of DEI. Graves expressed his gratitude to Fidelity Investments, The Executive Leadership Council, and Merck for their bold leadership and partnership. He also thanked the DEI professional community for their transformative work, setting the stage for a critical town hall discussion on defending corporate DEI.
The town hall was moderated by Minda Harts, founder and CEO of Memo LLC, and it initiated a conversation on the current state of DEI. The panelists, which included Celeste Warren from Merck, Traci Sanders from Verizon, and Audria Pendergrass Lee from FINRA, shared their insights on the evolving challenges and the imperative to reclaim the DEI narrative. Sanders highlighted the importance of diversity for business success, despite the increasing pressures on DEI roles. Pendergrass Lee stressed the need for inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.
Harts emphasized the perceived "war on DEI" and the importance of maintaining dignity, equity, and respect in the workplace. Warren discussed the fears and targeted attacks on DEI progress, comparing them to futile attempts to stop a tsunami with a bucket and mop. Sanders also pointed out the risks of undermining DEI education for future employees who may not be prepared for diverse workplaces. Pendergrass Lee clarified that DEI is about ensuring equal opportunities for all, dismissing the portrayal of discrimination against white males.
The panelists emphasized the need for strategic, united action, including active allyship from all demographic groups, to sustain and advance DEI initiatives. Pendergrass Lee and Sanders also stressed the importance of white allies in DEI efforts, encouraging them to be team members rather than saviors.
The discussion also highlighted the role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in fostering inclusion and breaking stigmas. Pendergrass Lee shared FINRA's strategy of inclusive ERGs, while Sanders discussed Verizon's practice of involving C-suite leaders in ERGs to enhance engagement and education. Both panelists agreed that DEI must be embedded into all organizational processes. Warren emphasized the importance of resilience and mutual support in the workplace. The panel also discussed the importance of mentoring younger employees, respecting their boundaries, and leveraging their innovative approaches. They also stressed the need to align company values with expected behaviors, particularly in diversity and inclusion, advocating for ongoing, sometimes discreet, efforts to make progress.
As the Summit came to a close, it was evident that the journey towards true equality and inclusion is ongoing and requires collective effort from all stakeholders. BLACK ENTERPRISE's Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer, Derek T. Dingle, reflected on the session's message about the urgent need to combat threats that undermine decades of progress for Black executives and diversity leaders. He emphasized the significance of this discussion near the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 55 years since the founding of Black Enterprise by Earl G. Graves Sr., urging vigilance in holding corporate America accountable for preserving hard-earned advancements.
In conclusion, the message of the Summit was clear: the journey towards true equality and inclusion is ongoing and requires collective effort from all stakeholders. The event was a reminder of the progress made so far, and the work that still needs to be done to achieve true diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate America.
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