“The need for change bulldozed a road down the center of my mind.” — Maya Angelou
When I read this quote from the phenomenal Maya Angelou, the image that immediately came to mind was the throngs of terrorists who stormed the bastion of our democracy, intent on imposing their will over the will of the majority of the country.
I watched as they climbed up walls, broke down barriers, and destroyed our Capitol, unchecked by many of the law enforcement officials who were there to protect and defend.
As I sat, gaze frozen on the screen before me, my mind raced back to the images from last summer – George Floyd protests, Breonna Taylor protests, Jacob Blake protests and so many more – not just from 2020, but from many years before.
The images were not the same by a long shot. But did we honestly expect them to be?
Equality is defined as the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities.
While the terrorists were allowed the opportunity to assemble en masse without the presence of law enforcement outfitted in riot gear, driving tanks, arresting anyone and everyone in their wake; Black Lives Matter protesters were not.
While the insurgents were shielded from the harsh criticisms of lawmakers who were elected to serve the people – instead cheered on by several members of Congress and the President of these United States; Black Lives Matter protesters were called vile names, were not protected from those who wished them harm, and some injured and killed.
But still, people struggle to call this was it is – a double standard, hypocrisy, racial discrimination that afforded one group the right to do anything they want while affording another group the bare minimum of the rights that they deserve.
This is not equality.
Equality is the part of DEI that people have the most difficulty with, in my opinion. To say you have a diverse group because you have people around the table that do not look like you or think like you is one thing. To include them in the policy decisions and in the creation of work products is another. But to ensure that they have equal access to all rights, opportunities, and status is a completely different thing.
In 2020, companies wrestled with DEI and how to be better, stronger, and more impactful. They strategized statements, reviewed policies, brainstormed new programs in hopes of creating a better work environment. All of that was great, but the time for planning is over.
2021 must be the year of impact. It’s time to make change happen internally and externally. Look at your teams, look at your supply chains, look at your clients and their audiences. If you are not equipped to authentically and purposefully communicate with these groups, get equipped and do it now! Hire the staff you need, collaborate with minority firms, find the resources. The truth of the matter is that your company should have already been there. Last year was your grace year, and that time is up.
Equality does not just happen. We have to create it and maintain it with diligence and fervor. That is what your company needs. That is what our communities need; and that is what is country needs, now more than ever.
Be the change and be the change right now.
