Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Work is American

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.  

– Declaration of Independence

Now, more than any other time in our recent history, is when our country and the world need leaders that span the breadth of humanity to lead inclusively, equitably and justly.  

By its very nature, the work of diversity, equity and inclusion upholds the finest of American ideals—the American Dream of equal opportunity for all. DEI work, at its best, brings us together to heal division and find common ground, no matter our differences, to realize our shared hopes and dreams. 

We believe President Trump’s recent directive banning diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in the federal government undermines the very ambition of our democracy—that we are all equal. It thwarts our path towards a more perfect Union. 

Diversity, equity and inclusion work isn’t partisan. DEI work is about ensuring an equitable playing field for all regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and more.

This work takes courage. Diversity, equity and inclusion work takes personal conviction: Done well, it doesn’t force anyone to believe anything they don’t want to believe. It doesn’t shame people. Instead, it helps us bridge divides, collaborate on complex issues, and create win-win, equitable solutions for everyone. It’s how we’ve been inspiring leaders across the globe for the past 25 years. 

This work deepens partnerships. Doing the profound work that comes with exploring our respective identities, mindsets and behaviors helps us become better colleagues, leaders and partners in business and life. We become personally invested in equity and justice for ourselves, our communities and beyond. These deeper partnerships benefit people and makes our businesses and our country more successful.

Creating an inclusive culture calls on every one of us, including white men, to shape the American Dream for us all. Inviting white men, especially in leadership roles, to become aware of their privilege helps them shift from feeling blamed to feeling engaged, from feeling at-fault to feeling energized. 

This work isn’t political or partisan. DEI work, at its core, seeks connection. It’s human work, where everyone benefits.  

About White Men as Full Diversity Partners (WMFDP I FDP Global): 

Our work over the last 25 years has helped thousands of global leaders courageously grow their consciousness and cultural competency to create and sustain inclusive work cultures. Over this time, we have worked across the political spectrum as inclusion is a human rights issue, not a political one. We believe freedom of choice and differing voices and perspectives are the strengths of a democracy and striving for a common good, not a threat to it. 

And, we believe in equity—the ability for every person to have access to opportunity and for every person’s voice to be heard and to matter. We are committed to creating cultures where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. WMFDP is committed to using diverse perspectives to grow courageous leaders and promote inclusive cultures in the United States and around the world.

Original article appears on wmfdp.com here by Bill Proudman, Michael Welp, Jim Morris, Wayne Pignolet and Gwendoline Van Doosselaere.