In the ever-evolving landscape of modern business, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives continue to play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, attracting top talent, and creating positive work environments. Cherice Thomas, a Programme Leader at Kyndryl, a leading IT infrastructure services provider, offers valuable insights into the transformative power of well-implemented DEI programs based on her firsthand experiences.
The Power of Employee Resource Groups
One of the standout features at Kyndryl, according to Thomas, is their Kyndryl Inclusion Networks (KINs). These employee-led resource groups bring together individuals with shared identities, focusing on aspects such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and disability. What sets KINs apart is their robust structure, with sponsorship from the global enterprise level cascading down to country-specific chapters.
This organizational approach creates a direct link between top-level management and individual employees, making KINs particularly effective and empowering. As a volunteer for three KINs – Race & Ethnicity, LGBTQ+, and Women’s – Thomas has experienced firsthand the value these groups bring in terms of personal growth and professional development.
The Ongoing Need for DEI Advocacy
While many companies now invest in inclusion groups, Thomas emphasizes that the need for such initiatives remains as pressing as ever. Her personal journey as an LGBTQ+ individual of Caribbean descent has shown her the importance of continued advocacy and support.
Coming out was a gradual process for Thomas, spanning from her late teens to mid-twenties. During this time, she faced challenges not only in professional environments but also within her cultural background. The Caribbean’s complex history with anti-LGBTQ+ laws and religious beliefs often clashed with her identity, making acceptance a difficult path to navigate.
Although both her Caribbean community and the broader culture have made significant strides in understanding and accepting LGBTQ+ identities, Thomas cautions against complacency. She notes that global progress in DEI is not uniform, and hard-won rights can be easily eroded if vigilance is not maintained.
The Global Perspective
Thomas stresses the importance of remembering that in many parts of the world, pursuing same-sex relationships can still lead to persecution, imprisonment, or even death. She points to recent events in the United States as a stark reminder that progress can be reversed:
- Trans individuals barred from military service
- Federal contractors using religious exemptions to discriminate against LGBTQ+ employees
- Censorship of inclusive educational materials
- Financial pressures on businesses promoting diversity
- Legislation threatening women’s bodily autonomy
These developments, in her view, underscore the importance of businesses doubling down on their commitment to DEI initiatives.
The Impact of Representation
Thomas’s journey into the IT sector highlights another critical aspect of DEI programs: representation. As a child, she was naturally drawn to logic and geometry puzzles, yet never imagined a career in IT because she didn’t see people who reflected her culture and values in such roles.
It wasn’t until she was well into her career that Thomas encountered role models who looked like her and shared similar backgrounds. This experience underscores the importance of diverse representation in the workplace, not just for individual career possibilities but also for businesses to access a wider talent pool.
Beyond Talent Acquisition: A Social Stance
While improved talent acquisition and retention are often cited as primary reasons for investing in DEI initiatives, Thomas argues that we must not overlook their broader social impact. Programs like KINs serve as a powerful statement against prejudice and discrimination, actively working to maintain and advance the progress made in creating more inclusive societies.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As we move forward in 2024 and beyond, Thomas asserts that DEI initiatives remain as relevant and necessary as ever. By continuing to invest in these programs, businesses not only enhance their own performance and innovation but also play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable and inclusive world.
She encourages everyone to keep pushing for progress, recognising that the work of creating truly inclusive workplaces and societies is an ongoing journey that requires constant vigilance, commitment, and action from all stakeholders.