To the ones listening...

As someone deeply rooted in the field of community resilience, climate adaptation, disaster management, and urban planning, I find myself wanting to chip in to address the concerning developments unfolding in our beloved state of Utah. My career, dedicated to building resilient and thriving communities in the face of climate-related hazards and economic shocks, has always revolved around the principles of #justice and #equity. These values are fundamental, not just in crisis management but in nurturing the social fabric of our communities...

And with this sense of dismay is that I read the recent legislative actions in Utah, notably the passing of the Anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Bill (HB261), and the Anti-Trans Bill (HB257). These laws not only undermine the diversity and inclusivity that are essential to the diverse communities that makes our state so unique and beautiful... but they also raise critical questions about our collective priorities and the direction in which we are heading.

In my work as a Management Consultant, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Having and building community around culture and empathy, uplifting one another despite our differences is what made that specific role so thrilling and exciting. However, these are not just abstract concepts but practical tools that drive social and economic resilience. The economic implications of DEI initiatives, as extensively reported in McKinsey & Company's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Lighthouses 2023 Report, demonstrate significant, quantifiable, scalable, and sustainable impacts. For instance, Walmart’s initiative in improving social mobility through education led to a 20% higher retention rate and a staggering 87.5% higher likelihood of promotion among Black participants. Schneider Electric's pay equity framework is another testament to the tangible benefits of DEI, achieving remarkable improvements in workforce pay gaps and gender balance.

Another study from the Pew Research Center surveyed 5,902 American workers about their thoughts on diversity, fairness, and inclusion (DEI) at work. The main takeaway? More than half of them (56%) think that efforts to increase DEI in the workplace are a good thing. Also, most people who actually have DEI programs at their jobs feel these are making a positive difference.

Take it from someone who is Latino and openly Gay, who went to a Predominant White Institution (PWI) in the Midwest: the need is vast. Therefore, we must look for ways to understand Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. These initiatives underscore how inclusivity and diversity are not just moral imperatives but key drivers of economic growth and community resilience. They are critical in our efforts to build communities that can anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from various challenges, whether climate-related or socio-economic.

As we confront all these legislative changes, I am compelled to ask: What crises are we addressing with such measures? Are they contributing to solving our pressing issues like affordable housing, air quality, infrastructure, education, and transportation? Or are they diverting our focus from these critical challenges?

In the spirit of community resilience, I urge each one of us to reflect on these developments and consider the kind of future we want for Utah. Let us engage in constructive dialogues, advocate for policies that uphold dignity and respect, and work towards a state where every individual, regardless of their background, can thrive. The beauty of Utah lies in its diversity, and it's our collective responsibility to nurture it.

I welcome your thoughts and contributions to this important conversation. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our state remains vibrant, inclusive, and resilient for all.

And for those listening, you are not alone.

Sinceramente,

Carlos S.