Through Equity, We All RISE

As an immigrant who loves the United States of America, where it’s progressive and most people are kind and wonderful, I’ve always felt welcomed and appreciated. I want the same for everyone, but I know that isn’t the case for many. Last year put the need for more diversity, inclusion, belonging and equity in the spotlight. The deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery drew a lot of attention and response from the public in America and across the world. Like many of you, I've dedicated time to reflect, listen and learn about the true need for change and how to achieve it. Living in a world and society that accepts us all and treats us all equally was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream.

Last month, we saw the first Black person, woman and a person of South Asian descent sworn in as Vice President of the United States. This month, we celebrate Black History Month and honor the historic, notable achievements by Black Americans. While Dr. King's dream is not yet realized, we've made progress towards equity, but there's still work to do. All of us at Rose International understand the need to drive change and achieve acceptance. This month, Rose launched RISE, a racial justice initiative. Through a $2 million commitment, Rose aims to support, guide and provide resources to students, job seekers, entrepreneurs and small businesses. The U.S. is the land of opportunity where American dreams come true. I hope the RISE initiative helps bring such opportunities EQUALLY to all.

By understanding what an equitable society and workplace look like and taking strategic steps to a more inclusive world, we reap the benefits of equity. When we create a world with equity for all, we all RISE.

The Understanding 

Diversity, inclusion, belonging and equity, they're different yet contribute together to create equality. Diversity in society and the workplace means being composed of people from different races, cultures, backgrounds and more. Inclusion is the welcoming and equal treatment of diverse individuals. Belonging is a sense once individuals' voices are appreciated and amplified so they feel they can be who they are at work, without having to change their personality or characteristics. Think of it like this:

·        Diversity is one's seat at the table.

·        Inclusion is having a voice.

·        Belonging is having our voice heard.

·        Equity is how we feel at the table.

When all members of a diverse group have the same opportunities to grow and succeed, that's equity. We need a plan, goals and commitment to achieve this.

The Benefits of Equity Efforts

Prioritizing corporate diversity, inclusion, belonging and equity creates an equal workplace and contributes to workforce equality. In turn, this creates an environment that's prime for innovation. An environment with various viewpoints and experiences allows individuals with diverse backgrounds to feel comfortable; this also fosters their participation and productivity. Progressive organizations are committed to diversity in their supply chains. The workforce and vendor network should reflect a company's consumer base. In this day and age, we must all "walk the talk." Gone are the days of marginal efforts; the case for increasing equity is established.

The Power We All Hold

As citizens of Earth, consumers and business leaders, there are steps we can take to further diversity and inclusion efforts. Forward-thinking leaders assess workforce gaps to create strategically diverse hiring practices. When cultivating corporate partnerships, it's encouraged to connect with groups and organizations that help communities of color succeed. As global citizens and consumers who want worldwide equity, we have power in the brands and companies we support. Being informed allows us to buy from companies and restaurants who prioritize diversity within their organizations and their affiliations. By helping or volunteering with nonprofits that help communities of color overcome societal barriers, we too are part of the fight towards equality. Business Leaders for Racial & Social Justice hosted a fundraiser for the Innocence Project; I felt compelled to support this effort. Additionally, a local doctor whose compassion I saw firsthand held a fundraiser that benefitted Las Vegas' underserved communities, to which I donated. Efforts to increase equity in our world may not always be easy, but it's always worth it for us all.

"For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it."

– Amanda Gorman

Acceptance and equal treatment for all are things we haven't achieved yet, but we can and will. By committing to address racial and economic injustice, we commit to increasing equity. We all have a responsibility and capability to improve society and create a more equitable world than what we first found. When we act with intention, we make it happen.

We all RISE when we have equity for all.

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A little bit about me: I emigrated to the U.S. from India in 1987. In 1995, I left my job as a systems analyst to start a staffing company in my unfinished basement. I'm an advocate for women- and minority-owned businesses and people of color.

I encourage you to check out my past blogs to find tips and insights that may help you continue "making it happen" in your life. I share additional insight into creating a more diverse, inclusive workplace here.