PROGRESS MADE, BUT MORE PROGRESS NEEDED

When you role model inclusiveness, you positively impact individuals, business, and society.

Our mission at the National Diversity Council (NDC) has always been to foster an inclusive workplace environment as we partner and support companies and organizations across the United States. More and more, we have seen exponential growth in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. According to statistics, more than 75% of job applicants say a diverse workforce is important when considering a job offer. But to continue to make progress, organizations must be intentional in their commitment to advancing DEI. A 2023 report by McLean & Company concludes that the sense of urgency on the long-term work required for DEI has declined.

As we emerged from the pandemic in 2022, the NDC was committed stronger than ever to our mission. After two years of virtual programing, we returned to in-person and hybrid events. We held four conferences—including our first ever National Black Men in Leadership Summit, with more than 750 Black professionals and allies gathered to champion leadership development. We believe these efforts are needed more than ever as just over 3% of executive or senior leadership roles are held by Black professionals in companies across the U.S.

Last year, we also celebrated college students who attended our Emerging Leadership Internship Program, because to see the long-term changes that need to be made, we must ensure we are building strong voices for DEI in future generations. Our 2022 cohorts were comprised of students from HBCUs, HSIs, and MSIs (historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanicserving institutions, and minority-serving institutions) across the nation. We cannot wait to see how they advance DEI in their given professions and encourage more young leaders in the process.

We are also seeing the continued growth of the NDC Certification Program. Developing this program was a labor of love that required extensive research as theory and practice were brought together.

NDC’s five-day intensive program empowers participants with the skills and knowledge needed to help organizations make true change. During our week-long program, guest speakers share insights from their areas of expertise and engage in meaningful dialogue with participants. The program culminates with students divided into groups to work on a team-based project as a practical way to apply what they’ve learned. Participants, who come from many roles such as human resources, finance, marketing, and communications, leave able to embed DEI in all areas of their personal lives, professional career, and business.

Recently, I was able to connect with graduates from our April training in Detroit. Many called the course “life changing” and believe the certification gives them more tools in their toolboxes to further advance DEI initiatives in their place of work.

NDC’s training doesn’t stop after the five days. Our participants not only bond with their cohorts but are welcomed into an extensive network of more than 1,500 alumni. It’s not uncommon for graduates to reach out to one another for advice and support as they continue their journey. It serves as a reminder that we are always stronger together.

Diversity continues to evolve, and the work is far from done. It takes education, advocacy, and dedication. It’s a challenging journey, but the National Diversity Council is up for the challenge. We are hopeful that we will see more companies and individuals seek out opportunities to strengthen their understanding and approach to DEI so that we can achieve the progress that is necessary for our nation.