Thanks for pointing out Costco's positive response, Michele. As the news item mentions, other companies are retreating from the DEI phrase, if not the philosophy. Some social media succeeded in making the term DEI toxic for many folks, even leading to legislative prohibitions in a few states.
As individuals and organizations, I recommend that we express goals consistent with our mission and employ approaches (e.g., a diverse workforce) that support those goals. Costco did that by stating a goal of customer value that is achieved by employee and supplier diversity. The next step is harder. How do we achieve diversity without diversity goals which may look like, or become, quotas that feed the opposition narrative? IMO, that requires managers who truly believe in the benefits of diversity and (1) actively recruit diverse applications/proposals, (2) hire/award the best qualified, and (3) insist on equal treatment and an inclusive atmosphere to ensure retention. That doesn't conflict with managers striving to achieve mission goals as long as we keep goals and approaches distinct.
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William McAnally Ph.D., P.E., BC.CE, BC.NE, F.ASCE
ENGINEER
Columbus MS
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Original Message:
Sent: 12-30-2024 08:06 AM
From: Michele Heyward
Subject: Costco vs. the Anti-DEI Wave: Standing Firm on Diversity
While "Walmart, John Deere, Tractor Supply and other companies are changing or walking away from diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies. But Costco believes DEI helps..."
Per a Yahoo! Finance article, "Costco is battling an anti-DEI wave with a stern rebuke to activist shareholders looking to end the warehouse retailer's diversity ambitions"
However, Costco's board did not dissent in changing course away from DEI.
As this debate unfolds, it raises important questions for all of us:
- How can organizations stay true to their DEI goals amidst external pressures?
- What role do we play in supporting and amplifying these efforts within our own spheres of influence?
Link to article referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/costco-pushing-back-hard-against-201119769.html
#Inclusionandbelonginginengineeringworkforce
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Michele Heyward A.M.ASCE
Denmark SC
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