Turbulence In Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)

In the aftermath of COVID-19, it is clear that we are in a recession. We’ve seen massive tech layoffs and redundancies, and companies are panicking. Jobs cut first are those companies see as non-essential as they prioritise other areas. Unfortunately, we’re seeing equity, diversity and inclusion positions as some of the roles being deemed non-essential. 

Production studios such as Warner Bros, Disney, Netflix and the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences have let go of or lost their diversity officers. In the UK the BBC has lost its Head of Creative Diversity Joanna Abeyie. 

Marcus Ryder, a professor at the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for media diversity, tweeted

 ‘The lack of speculation as to who will replace @Joanna_Abeyie is worrying for 2 reasons: 1. The lack of chat from media watches says people do not see it as an important industry position with real power.

“[And] 2.The lack of chat from potential candidates of serious standing means people do not see this role as desirable. That might be because people do see it as having real power, an impossible task, or have viewed what has happened to previous holders of the role negatively.’

This worrying setback demonstrates the lack of a meaningful commitment to EDI within major corporations. We need to remind execs that EDI is not just a marketing practice, it has an impact financially, socially and environmentally. EDI should be embedded as part of any company’s essential framework. Diversity and Inclusion is not only the right thing to do, but for an innovative, thriving workforce it is essential!

Emma Turner, our Workplace Partnerships Lead, would like corporate executives to know;

‘Embracing EDI is a strategic and moral choice that empowers organisations to cultivate innovation, harness collective potential, and drive sustainable success. Organisations that fail to develop inclusive practice and welcome diversity won’t reap the benefits and- worse still- will see a negative impact on their bottom line.’ 

Here are some resources that demonstrate exactly that;

• Check out this article by The Washington Post on the importance of EDI to gen z or similarly this paper by Deloitte on Millenials and EDI
• Learn how diverse leadership can boost innovation in this blog post by BCG
• Learn more about our EDI training and inclusion consultancy

We’ve created a business case to arm you to have the important conversation to get investment, resources and budget for your EDI efforts. 

Need help figuring out how to start building and supporting a diverse workforce? Get in touch to find out how we can support your organisation in creating an inclusive and welcoming culture!