Hello Changemakers!

Hey Changemakers!

Welcome to the Aquaintz Consulting newsletter! July was a whirlwind of progress and change in the world of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). We’ve seen some big moves on the global stage, and I even had the privilege of attending a truly powerful event (more on that later).

Let’s dive in and keep the momentum going!

Inside this Issue:

• Fresh EDI News: Global and corporate highlights?
• Event Recap: Insights from “The CEO Activist” book launch.
• Empowering Your Workforce: Essential EDI Practices for Your Organisation.
• Elevating Your Impact: How Aquaintz Consulting can be your EDI partner.

The Organisational Inclusionist:

Catch up on this month's podcast episodes. It’s a podcast with a purpose. Delving into the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within organisations and the world

Global & Corporate Highlights:

• Paris: The Paris Olympics have been overshadowed by controversy over France's decision to ban its female athletes from wearing hijabs during competition. While the ban does not extend to international competitors, it has ignited debate over religious freedom and secularism. The French government maintains that the rule aligns with the country's principles of secularism, while critics argue it discriminates against Muslim athletes.

• Microsoft Reassures DEI Commitment Amid Job Cuts: Tech giant Microsoft has moved to quash rumours that its entire Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team has been laid off. While the company confirmed job cuts within its events team, it emphasised the continued operation of its core DEI department, the Microsoft Global Talent, Development, Diversity, and Inclusion (GTDDI) team. This comes as corporate DEI initiatives face growing scrutiny.
• DEI Takes Centre Stage at Paris Olympics: The Paris Olympics opening ceremony has sparked a global debate on diversity and inclusion. Celebrated for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity, the ceremony featured DJ and producer Barbara Butch. However, a visual representation inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's “Last Supper” has drawn criticism. The ceremony’s director insists it was a celebration of diversity, not a provocative statement.
• DEI Under Fire as US Politics Intensifies: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are facing increasing challenges as the US presidential election approaches. A growing number of companies are scaling back DEI programmes in response to conservative criticism. This trend is exemplified by Project 2025, a policy proposal aiming to dismantle federal DEI efforts. Characterising these policies as “affirmative discrimination," the project advocates for a merit-based hiring system. As the political climate heats up, DEI has become a highly divisive issue.

Event Spotlight: The CEO Activist

I was recently honoured to attend the launch of Leila McKenzie-Delis’ incredible book, “The CEO Activist”. The panel discussion, hosted by Ray Dempsey and featuring diverse leaders, was truly electric. Here are my key takeaways:

• Real Change Takes Teamwork: True transformation happens when leadership champions EDI, communicates effectively, and embeds it across the entire organisation.
• CEO Activism Makes a Difference: Leaders who speak up and prioritise inclusion can spark authentic conversations and drive real change.
• We Can All Be CEO Activists: No matter your title, you have the power to advocate for inclusivity in your sphere of influence.

Get your copy of “The CEO Activist” here: https://amzn.eu/d/0aAvHDh7

?

Labour's recent success in the general election has brought renewed focus on EDI in the workplace. One thing is for sure: inclusion specialists, like me, welcome their victory.

Key points from their manifesto and things to look out for include:

• Extended protection for pregnant workers: Pregnant employees will have increased job security for up to six months after returning from maternity leave.
• Menopause plans: Larger employers will be required to have formal plans in place to support employees going through menopause.
• Ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting: Larger companies must monitor and address pay disparities based on ethnicity and disability.
• Longer time limits for employment tribunal claims: Employees will have more time to file complaints about workplace issues.
• Socioeconomic disadvantage duty: Public sector bodies will be obligated to tackle inequalities linked to socioeconomic factors.

Empowering Your Workforce: Building an Inclusive Workplace

Creating a truly inclusive environment requires an ongoing commitment. Here are some key practices to implement:

• Understanding the Legal Framework: Stay informed about local and international EDI laws to ensure compliance and best practices.
• Regular Training: Ongoing training programmes raise awareness and equip employees with the knowledge and skills to build an inclusive workplace.
• Inclusive Policies & Procedures: Develop clear policies that promote equality and prevent discrimination.
• Monitoring & Reporting: Track your progress through data and hold yourselves accountable by reporting to stakeholders.
• Employee Support Systems: Foster a sense of belonging by creating Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and mentorship programmes.
• Seek out experts: Get expert inclusion advice and support from Aquaintz Consulting, your long-term partner for organisational transformation.

Some of my thoughts this month

Just in case you missed them, here are a few of my recent posts that got people thinking this month.

Inclusion is Key to Success

Discover how to create a more inclusive workplace. We’ve shared a valuable tool to help you assess your company’s inclusion journey. Check it out! https://aquaintzconsulting.scoreapp.com

How Aquaintz Consulting Can Help You:

At Aquaintz Consulting, we’re passionate about helping organisations achieve their full potential by creating inclusive workplaces. Here are some ways we can partner with you:

• 1-2-1 Inclusion Coaching: If you lead or aspire to lead diverse teams, develop your inclusive leadership skills or support your team members through personalised coaching sessions. We’ll discuss your goals, challenges and enable you to become the Leader you wish you had.
• Inclusion Strategy Audits: We conduct a comprehensive review of your current EDI efforts and provide actionable plans for improvement. Prices start at ￡5,000, and you’ll receive a comprehensive report and recommendations for actionable steps to further Inclusion for maximum employee engagement ?

Ready to take the next step? Book your free discovery call now! https://calendly.com/grace-mosuro/introductory-call-1

Let’s Keep Moving Forward!

Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a more inclusive world! Stay tuned for next month’s newsletter, and let’s keep working together to make a real difference.

Our newsletter is moving to email in August! We are thrilled to continue sharing updates, insights, and exclusive content with you.

To ensure you don't miss out, please sign up for our email mailing list by entering your email address below.

Warmly,

The Organisational Inclusionist

Aquaintz Consulting

?