Q & awiThadeiParTner : dawnSiler-nixon
Diversity , Equity & Inclusion Committee
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that . Diversity encompasses each of our cultures , religions , ethnicities , backgrounds , thoughts , veteran status , disabilities , immigration status , and more . When I can hone in on one of the things that an individual can identify as a diverse characteristic and connect a similarity in my background with a colleague , it provides them with a tangible method of identifying the importance of DEI to themselves and others .
Alex : What are the biggest challenges DEI professionals are currently facing ?
Dawn : One of the biggest challenges that DEI professionals are currently facing is the true prioritization of DEI as a business strategy . While many organizations got on board with DEI following the murder of George Floyd and the tragic deaths of so many others , many of those organizations simply placed DEI on the shelf as a window-dressing . Many DEI leaders have struggled to garner support for true change as it relates to the culture of organizations , change in recruiting strategies , increasing understanding of what DEI means generally and for the organization specifically , and embedding DEI throughout the organization ’ s business operations . Some business leaders view DEI as just another buzzword or phrase that they need to utilize in order to be accepted by clients , without the willingness to engage in the hard work necessary to sustain real and important change .
Alex : Do you believe it is necessary for companies to dedicate a role to DEI ?
Dawn : In order for DEI to be a true priority within an organization ,
a company will need a dedicated DEI professional or at least someone who can focus on developing the mission and vision of DEI for the organization and embedding those core values within every part of the company . This dedicated DEI resource will be able to identify issues and help guide the organization through challenges , while helping leaders embrace and share vulnerabilities that will allow the organization to thrive and grow . As you know , a one-size-fits-all approach to DEI does not work . Each organization has its own unique culture that the dedicated DEI resource will be able to evaluate and cultivate , so that systematic and individual biases can be identified and addressed .
Dawn further shared , “ Getting started with DEI may seem overwhelming for many businesses . That is where a dedicated DEI professional can help . When their singular focus is on moving Diversity forward , the DEI professional can continue the company ’ s trajectory forward on their strategic plan to achieve their goals , without getting sidetracked with other obligations .” Many thanks to Dawn for her time and for sharing her insight and thoughts on this important topic . n
Authors : Dawn Siler- Nixon – FordHarrison , LLP and Alexandra Srsic – Bay Area Legal Services m a r - a p r 2 0 2 3 | H C B a L a W Y E r
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