I had the privilege of attending a Diversity and Inclusion event run in partnership by PwC and Global Women.
The event was run by Senior PwC Partner, Russell Windsor. Russell led by example, showing vulnerability as he shared his story of how he came to bringing his “whole self to work” and the challenge of doing so.
Within the corporate world, we are focused on Diversity – spending effort on how to ensure we do enough to ‘tick all the boxes’. But how can we truly be inclusive? Why ‘be diverse’ if we do not ensure we have an inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is valued?
An image was shared, (below) which communicates the difference between different kinds of diversity and inclusion so well! Diversity and inclusion are good for everyone, not only those groups who are perceived to be marginalised.
One comment resonated after the question was posed “how long do you think we [LGBTQI] will have to keep advocating?”, the response,
“until coming out is as normal as saying ‘I’m left handed’.”
It is our responsibility as corporates and those of privilege to share stories, to continue to raise awareness, to be role models. Statistics such as youth suicide rates show that we will have a long way to go.
I have a position of relative privilege – I come from a hardworking but well off family, I am well educated, my body is ‘full-able’ and I am white. Although I may not represent marginalised groups, I will continue to share stories, attempt to spark thought and use my privilege to advocate.
What will you do differently to move the dial?
(The article is a re-share from Global Women archives)