Diversity, equity, and inclusion have been the common pillars of many companies over the past few years. Created initially to address racism, sexism, and homophobia in the workplace, diversity and inclusion efforts have ultimately hurt employees of color as our experiences get singled out.
Now Black workers are demanding more than just being included. Belonging means that we can be ourselves and not feel forced to code-switch on the job. Our whole self is valued instead of continuing a history of discrimination and exploitation in the workplace.
Companies are now understanding just how important Black workers are to their businesses, especially since high turnover rates from racial inequity in the workplace has cost organizations up to $172 billion over the last five years.
What can’t be forgotten is the need for equity and access. We need more than a seat at the table. We need to be in key discussions, positions of power, and feel like we truly belong and are appreciated. Without this, we can never truly reach a radicalized and reimagined workplace.
We should not have to be someone else in the workplace. Our personality, ideas, and Blackness should all be celebrated to the fullest extent. We deserve to exist in spaces where that is not only possible, but where it is the standard.