Mission accomplished: your DEI work is done

We have some great news: we’ve finally achieved our goal of creating truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environments, where everyone everywhere feels a sense of belonging. Despite systemic inequality and the historic marginalization of many individuals, we’ve somehow overcome every single obstacle to create truly equal and fair workplaces.

APRIL FOOLS

Okay, okay – I’m obviously kidding. But unfortunately, not everyone believes that this is a joke. All you need to do is read the news lately to confirm that some leaders truly think that the days of focusing on workplace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts are over and done with.

Don’t worry: at the Purple Method, we know that DEI efforts have never been more important. That’s why the third pillar of our method, Rethink, focuses on efforts to address systemic inequality faced by women of color, LGBTQIA+ members, persons with disabilities, and other individuals with multiple marginalized and intersecting identities. Our offerings emphasize the intersectional implications of harassment by creating tailored, inclusive, and equitable solutions that recognize and address the unique challenges faced by marginalized populations.

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to present alongside the Purple Method team at the City University of New York’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access Conference in New York City. As we celebrated Black History Month and Women’s History Month, it was an honor to present alongside my Purple Method colleagues and other experts on the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, advancing disability and LGBTQIA+ inclusion, addressing gender-based challenges for women, and exploring restorative justice approaches to harassment and discrimination.

The current backlash against DEI programs means that it’s more important than ever to take a strategic and intentional approach to your policies and trainings. It’s absolutely possible to create effective DEI programs while avoiding legal risks and pitfalls. The Purple Method is here to help, and I’m excited to preview that we’ll be rolling out some new offerings on this front soon!

In the meantime, avoid those April Fool’s pranks and keep up the good DEI work.

To safer workplaces everywhere,

Aaliah Zonicle
Policy & DEI
The Purple Method