Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – Past, Present and Future

Maryam Mirza

Faculty: Lisa Berardino

ONLINE ONLY!

Numerous studies have been conducted on the positive impacts of having a diverse workforce, providing them inclusive work environments where they can contribute openly and feel heard and creating systems that provide equitable opportunities to all, then why have the efforts around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion not been successful in making a sizeable change in our workplaces and society?

This paper explores the history of DEI, it goes on to discuss why DEI is important, where are we now in our DEI journey and where should we go from here. After researching online resources, I have gathered steps that can be taken by leaders in organizations to create effective and sustainable DEI programs. Leaders need to define what DEI means in their organizational context, build trust, and embed DEI practices into the DNA of their organizations.

They need to train and empower middle managers to create and operationalize DEI programs. Leaders need to set goals, collect data and measure progress overtime, compare it to other organizations in their domain and share the results to increase accountability and transparency around DEI efforts.

With the renewed awareness around DEI and with the emergence of technologies focused on providing equal opportunities to all, we will see a shift towards a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable society and organizations. DEI is a journey not a destination.

The journey won’t be easy, but it can be crucial for an organization’s success in the coming years.

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