CARING for one another

I shared this note on the George Floyd tragedy and the on-going injustices in the U.S. and in other parts of the world with my team. At Baker Hughes, we are firm in our belief in justice and equality, and in listening to one another to learn and understand. We must act. Division only drives us apart, addition makes us stronger:

We are all deeply saddened and outraged by the racial injustice we have witnessed across the U.S., and recent events that have transpired. At Baker Hughes, we do not and will not tolerate discrimination anywhere, without exception. We must do our part as a community and a company to stand together against this injustice, not only in the U.S. but around the world.   

At Baker Hughes, we are committed to an inclusive culture. Our diverse views and collective wisdom give us strength. We are better together. Our company's core values – GROW, COLLABORATE, LEAD, and CARE – define our culture every day. Right now, CARE and COLLABORATION are needed more than ever. I ask that we all reflect on these troubling events and environments, and find ways to help create awareness and understanding, connection, and compassion. The first step starts within: this week we launched our previously planned Employee Resource Groups (ERG) membership drive. With thousands of employees already participating, our ERGs help create a sense of belonging and build a stronger, more diverse work environment. They also provide community and connection, even in times of uncertainty like today.

We must also create open and honest forums to discuss and listen to one another. This week we are engaging with many of you on inclusion and diversity topics. Some of these activities were already planned, such as our ERG membership drive and global recognition of the start of Pride Month, but we have decided to take further action given recent events. I will join the African American Forum’s Meditation Moment meeting this Wednesday, and we are hosting an open discussion on inclusion and belonging next week on June 10. Any and all employees can join these meetings, as well as the other town halls our ERGs are holding over the coming weeks. It is important, now more than ever, we continue these forums to listen, discuss, and act together.

The world is a challenging place right now. We are navigating through a global pandemic, forcing shut-downs and shut-ins. Now, we are seeing conflicts and injustice in the streets of our communities. It can all be so overwhelming. What gives me strength is knowing that we have each other, and right now we need each other. We are a company and a culture that leads during and through difficult times. I am so proud to be a part of this team. Let’s make a positive difference to each other and our communities. In doing so, WE will take energy forward – together.