Majority Rules!

Majority.

It typically means those that have power. It’s a function of numbers.

It might mean the largest tribes in Africa, or the dominant religion in Indonesia. In the U.S. workforce, in most functions, the majority is Caucasian males.

Members of the “majority” each experience inclusion and exclusion in different ways. In a world where the underrepresented have a greater voice, those in the majority can feel like they aren’t being heard. It’s easy to scoff at the notion that those in the majority can feel excluded, but assuming that those in the majority are always in the “in group” is another form of unconscious bias.

Take Jeff Newhook, for example. Jeff is a Caucasian male employee from Newfoundland, Canada who spent decades disguising his accent, “covering,” so no one would know where he was from. 

Or Caleb Carroll, who had always been part of the Caucasian male majority in the US, moved abroad, and experienced being in the minority. Jeff and Caleb courageously share their stories here.

Moreover, as the workforce becomes increasingly global and diverse, the makeup of our workforce will change. Chevron’s U.S. workforce is currently 51% Caucasian male, down from 54% in 2014. Caucasian males will not be the “majority” forever. As we talk about inclusion, it’s increasingly important to focus on everyone – not just those who have historically been in the minority.

Still, the majority is in the best position to help affect the change needed to strengthen a diverse and inclusive workforce. They facilitate diversity and inclusion by helping promote and engage in meaningful dialogues and actions that influence and inspire others. They play a central role as ADVOCATES for change. It’s why MARC (Men Advocating Real Change) isn’t called WARC. It’s what champions like Hugh Connett, George Wall and Birlie Bourgeois have done to support the efforts of our strong MARC leaders. It’s what Mike Wirth did to launch the program.

It comes in the form of PRIDE allies like Brendan Horton and Adam Randall, reminding the LGBTQ+ community that there are people who care about their cause.

Advocacy can also come in subtle doses. It comes in the form of Muslim colleagues in Indonesia inviting Pak Albert Simanjuntak, a Christian, to an Idul Fitri celebration, marking the end of Ramadhan month. Islam is the dominant religion in Indonesia.

One thing most of these allies from the majority have in common is that they do not seek attention or the spotlight for their support. But this is my post, so they just have to deal with it.

I have acknowledged just a few people in our organization who are allies and advocates. I know that you know many more that are out there, please join me in recognizing your favorite ally or advocate here.

While they may not seek attention or the spotlight, it’s your post.

When everyone is in, everyone wins.

Until next time,

Lee

Visit our D&I website for more information and resources.