How to Defend Your DEI Strategy
Need to defend your diversity, equity, or inclusion initiatives? Please allow me to provide some talking points and language you can repurpose to justify your work with stakeholders-clients, board, employees, and the court of public opinion. Use this script as you see fit and best wishes for sustaining your investment in this worthy work. I want you to thrive. If my team can be of service, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Humans have always disagreed. It's in our nature and will remain as such; if we're lucky. Freedom doesn't exist without balanced differences of opinion; that's the beauty of democracy; we are free to disagree.
At our company, we choose to embrace differences. Being like-minded isn't a requirement to thrive here, and we encourage all those in our community to be their authentic selves; whether we agree or disagree with their lifestyle doesn't matter. We prioritize our respect for free will and don't have to agree with you to value you.
Our company is made up of a collection of humans. All are perfectly different and unique in their experience, thoughts, looks, beliefs, history, and futures. Freedom is what transcends those differences, and we unapologetically stand for it.
We strive to cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive and attempt to live the best versions of their lives.
We attempt to create products, services, and experiences that appeal to all. Sometimes we get it right; sometimes, we don't; but we'll never stop trying. Not to mention, appealing to all is a more intelligent business choice than only serving like-minded customers.
Valuing one set of interests doesn't mean we devalue another's. We don't buy into the mindset of us vs. them - "you’re either with us or against us." We choose to embrace variety in those we work with and serve. We hope you'll respect our commitment to serve all, even those with whom you may disagree or don't understand.
Our focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) helps us better understand how to serve the unique needs and interests of the variety of stakeholders in our community; yours included.
Our DEI work equips us to tactically empathize with perspectives beyond our own understanding. We don’t have all of the answers and acknowledge that we have blind spots in our perspective. We are wholeheartedly committed to continuing our quest to serve all and considering the needs of all is a vital part of that process.
We desire your business but understand if you're only willing to support those with whom you agree. We respectfully disagree with your choice but value you anyway. We believe in forgiveness and hope you return to us when ready. But know this; we'll never waiver from our commitment to equality and freedom for all.
Your friends, even if you disagree,
{Insert your name here}