Warren: Diversity done wrong
Shannon Warren
Fairness and respect are universal terms that are typically understood and desired, not just for ourselves, but humanity in general. These are cornerstones of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that have been a hallmark of best practices around the world.
Harvard Business Review, the
Wall Street Journal and
Forbes tout irrefutable data demonstrating DEI efforts lead to higher profitability and productivity. Studies also reveal that effective DEI programs result in higher retention rates and ease in recruiting. Yet, a report by
Fast Company on the 2020 Global Gender Gap from the World Economic Forum estimates that it will take 100-150 years in North America to reach gender parity if we continue on our current path. It’s even worse for people of color. So, why are diversity efforts failing?
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Warren: Depolarizing politics at work By: Shannon Warren Guest Columnist January 22, 2021
Shannon Warren
With spending estimated at over $14 billion, it was hard to escape the rhetoric fostered by one of the most disagreeable and expensive campaigns in American history. Many internalized the politics of the day, causing people to become increasingly polarized.
Divisiveness has been further exacerbated by silos on social media, choice of news feeds pandering to harsh notions about opposing parties, racial divides, religious beliefs and even geographical separation between rural and urban communities. Stereotypes have emerged making nebulous associations of party affiliation with everything from coffee consumption to the clothes we wear.
Warren: Day of Racial Healing By: Shannon Warren Guest Columnist December 18, 2020
Shannon Warrensha
Jan. 19 will mark the fifth anniversary of the National Day of Racial Healing, a day to emphasize the need for continued recovery from the painful impact of systemic racism.
Sponsored by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, practical suggestions are offered by leaders in business, education, nonprofit and religious organizations. Their collective impetus is to eliminate apathy and propel momentum toward overcoming racial inequities.
The Kellogg Foundation’s research indicates, “Businesses with a more diverse workforce have been shown to have more customers, higher revenues and profits, greater market share, less absenteeism and turnover, and a higher level of employee and customer commitment to their organizations.”