Table of Experts: Different perspectives on diversity

Nov 17, 2023 - Creating inclusive workplaces is about allowing people to be who they are, appreciating their life experiences, understanding their needs, and ensuring that they have equal access to opportunity. When done correctly, it creates a vibrant culture that strengthens the organization, attracts, and retains top talent, and helps to build the community. But it is not always easy to achieve, and it requires ongoing attention. The Milwaukee Business Journal recently sat down with experts involved in diversity, inclusion, and equity initiatives to define what the terms really mean, how they can be implemented in the workforce, and the skills and competencies leaders need to implement them. Moderator was Erickajoy Daniels, senior VP, chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer, Advocate Aurora Health. Panelists were Marcos Deleon; chief human resources executive; Ascension Wisconsin; C. Greer Jordan, MBA, Ph.D., chief diversity and inclusion officer (CDIO), Medical College of Wisconsin, assistant professor, Institute of Health & Equity; and Beth Ridley, CEO; Ridley Consulting Group.

ERICKAJOY DANIELS: DEI – the acronym that stands for diversity, equity and inclusion – covers a lot of ground. It can have different meanings and objectives depending on the audience. How would you define DEI in the space where you live and work, and what specific benefits do you see that it provides?...