Inclusive Exclusion

Target recently gutted their DEI initiatives. The recent boycott and backlash could be a case study on why inclusive decision making is critical.  

 When organizations cut or change their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) tactics, I have to wonder: Who was at the table? Did they consult diversity experts or employee representatives in the process? Did they have a true understanding of the people most impacted when they made those decisions? 

Even the strongest allies benefit from expertise 

DEI experts bring knowledge and experience to the decision-making process that, in most other organizational decisions, CEOs would welcome.  

I hire an accountant to consult on tax or finance issues because I recognize I’m not an expert on accounting. In the same way, executives should want experienced advisors involved when it comes to DEI.  

In most cases, the initial conversations prompting company action around DEI  emerges organically, either middle-out or bottom-up. But they still have to convince the CHRO, CEO, or other C-level executives to green light the commitments.  

Executives who green light DEI initiatives tend to be allies, but few are subject matter experts.   

Think about that. All of those deliberate, thoughtful conversations. Only to have a handful of senior leaders, most unimpacted by the outcome, turn around and recommend cutbacks or full retrenchment. 

Don’t guess, get the facts 

When executives assume they already understand the needs of others, they risk falling into the trap of inclusive exclusion, making decisions for marginalized groups and potentially perpetuating the same dynamics they aim to fix.  

 Experienced advisors will give you perspective, lay out more nuanced scenarios and their consequences or benefits.  

Now isn’t the time for guesswork. Be thoughtful and considerate. Bring together the right mix of people to arrive at more informed conclusions.  

Greg Almieda, the Founder and CEO of Global View Communications and the 501(c)(3) Undivided America Project is a Boston-born DE&I strategist and thought leader. He consults organizations in New England on building inclusive workplaces in an evolving social and political landscape.