Skip to main content
search
Category

Inclusion

Elisabeth Cooke
In Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

The High Cost of Social Conservatism in Corporate Strategy

In a rapidly changing global economy, companies face a choice: adapt to shifting social expectations or risk becoming obsolete. Social conservatism—defined here as the resistance to progressive cultural change, including opposition to diversity initiatives, LGBTQ+ inclusion, gender equity, and modern workplace norms—may appear to some as a way to protect traditional values. But from a business standpoint, it’s increasingly clear: social conservatism costs more in the long run.

Talent Drain: Losing the Next Generation of Workers

Gen Z and Millennials—who will make up 75% of the workforce by 2025—are not only more diverse, but they also expect their employers to reflect progressive values. According to a 2022 Deloitte Global Survey, 49% of Gen Z and 44% of Millennials have rejected job opportunities based on personal ethics and company values. A conservative stance on social issues can quickly become a talent repellent.

Moreover, LGBTQ+ inclusive policies are especially important to younger talent. A study by McKinsey found that LGBTQ+ employees in inclusive environments are 1.4 times more likely to be proud to work at their company and 1.5 times more likely to promote their company to others. Losing out on these workers doesn’t just hurt culture—it damages innovation and recruiting pipelines.

Brand Reputation: Values Now Drive Consumer Behavior

Today’s consumers are not just buying products; they’re buying values. A 2022 Edelman Trust Barometer report found that 58% of consumers buy or advocate for brands based on their beliefs. Companies seen as socially regressive or discriminatory face growing boycotts, negative press, and loss of brand equity.

Take the backlash faced by companies that opposed same-sex marriage or took anti-LGBTQ+ stances: several faced significant drops in stock value, customer boycotts, and talent walkouts. In contrast, brands that support inclusive causes—like Ben & Jerry’s, Patagonia, and Salesforce—have not only maintained loyal customer bases but have outperformed their peers in long-term brand trust and consumer advocacy .

Legal and Regulatory Risks in Canada

In Canada, the legal and financial risks of maintaining socially conservative workplace policies are becoming increasingly significant. Federal and provincial human rights codes require employers to provide equal treatment in employment without discrimination based on race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and other protected grounds. Companies that fail to meet these standards face not only legal consequences but also reputational damage.

For example, in British Columbia, the Human Rights Tribunal awarded $176,000 in damages in a 2021 case where an employee experienced discrimination and harassment based on gender identity and expression in the workplace [B.C. Human Rights Tribunal, Nelson v. Goodberry Restaurant Group Ltd., 2021 BCHRT 137]. That amount was one of the highest awards for injury to dignity in the Tribunal’s history, signaling a clear stance against socially regressive workplace environments.

Meanwhile, federally regulated employers must now comply with the Pay Equity Act and the Employment Equity Act, which require proactive equity measures, annual reporting, and employee consultation. Non-compliance can result in fines, audits, and public scrutiny from the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC). As the CHRC noted in its 2022 Employment Equity Audit Report, organizations failing to meet equity requirements face growing risks not just from regulators, but also from the public and their own workforce.

Additionally, ESG-related regulations in Canada are evolving. The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) are increasingly pushing for disclosure of diversity metrics and workplace equity policies for publicly traded companies. Inaction or outdated stances on inclusion can negatively affect investor confidence and eligibility for ESG-focused capital.

The takeaway: socially conservative policies not only increase the risk of human rights complaints, but also put companies on the wrong side of evolving Canadian law and investment standards.

In the United States, social conservatism often results in the absence or reversal of inclusion policies, which can open the door to lawsuits, government fines, and compliance issues. Discrimination lawsuits cost U.S. businesses over $64 million in EEOC settlements alone in 2020. These costs don’t include legal fees, brand damage, or internal disruption.

As more jurisdictions pass regulations mandating equal opportunity, transparency, and diversity disclosures (such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive or California’s diversity mandates), socially conservative companies risk noncompliance, fines, and exclusion from ESG investment indices.

Lagging Innovation and Adaptability

Companies that resist social change often resist other forms of change, too. A study by Boston Consulting Group found that companies with above-average diversity on management teams had innovation revenue 19 percentage points higher than those with below-average diversity.

Socially conservative companies tend to create more homogenous leadership structures, which reduces the range of ideas and approaches considered in decision-making. This not only stifles innovation but also limits a company’s ability to pivot quickly in crisis—an essential trait in today’s volatile economy.

Investment Risks and ESG Ratings

Institutional investors are increasingly scrutinizing companies for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance. Companies that lag on social metrics—especially diversity, equity, and inclusion—are less likely to be included in ESG portfolios, which now represent over $35 trillion in assets under management globally.

In a socially conservative environment, companies are less likely to meet these benchmarks, which limits access to capital, decreases share value, and exposes them to activist shareholder campaigns.

Social Conservatism Is a Business Liability

In today’s environment, neutrality is no longer an option—and regression is a risk. While some leaders may see social conservatism as a way to preserve stability or tradition, the evidence is overwhelming: the financial cost of resisting inclusion, diversity, and progressive workplace values far outweighs any perceived short-term gain.

Forward-thinking companies are recognizing that doing the right thing and doing the profitable thing can—and must—be the same. Social progress isn’t just good ethics; it’s smart economics.

Elisabeth Cooke
In Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Why DEI Is a Smart Strategy in Uncertain Economic Times

When the economy wavers, companies often tighten their belts—cutting programs and reducing budgets. But one investment that continues to deliver strong returns, even in downturns, is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
Here’s why DEI is not just good ethics—it’s good business, especially when times are tough:

Better Problem-Solving and Innovation

Teams that bring different backgrounds, identities, and experiences to the table are more likely to challenge assumptions and generate creative solutions. In unpredictable markets, this diversity of thought is a critical advantage. McKinsey research shows that companies with diverse executive teams are more likely to outperform their peers on profitability.

Higher Employee Engagement and Retention

Economic stress can wear on employees. Inclusive workplaces—where people feel respected and valued—tend to have stronger morale and loyalty. That translates into lower turnover and higher productivity, helping companies avoid the hidden costs of constant rehiring and retraining.

Reputation and Brand Loyalty

More than ever, consumers and investors want to support companies that reflect their values. Organizations that maintain their DEI commitments—even during economic downturns—strengthen trust with stakeholders and stand out as leaders, not followers.

Expanded Market Reach

Diverse teams better understand the needs of diverse customers. That insight opens doors to new markets and helps tailor products and services more effectively—something every company needs when growth slows.

Bottom Line:
In tough times, the instinct might be to retreat—but the smarter move is to invest in what works. DEI is a proven strategy that drives resilience, innovation, and long-term value. It’s not a luxury. It’s a leadership imperative.

Elisabeth Cooke
In Diversity, , Inclusion

Modernizing the Employment Equity Act: A Bold Step Toward Dignity in the Workplace

In December 2023, the Canadian government took a major step forward in its ongoing mission to foster fairness, dignity, and inclusion at work. Following an in-depth review by the Employment Equity Act Task Force, a suite of bold recommendations has been proposed to modernize the Employment Equity Act (EEA)—Canada’s federal framework for advancing equitable employment practices.

For organizations that advocate for dignity in the workplace, these proposed changes represent a significant shift in how we collectively define equity, address systemic discrimination, and empower underrepresented workers across federally regulated sectors.

Centering Lived Experiences: Updating Equity Groups and Definitions

A central focus of the proposed reforms is a more accurate and compassionate recognition of who the Act serves. The recommendations call for an expanded and redefined set of employment equity groups, including:

  • Black people and 2SLGBTQI+ people as distinct groups, reflecting the unique systemic challenges these communities face.
  • A move from “Aboriginal Peoples” to “Indigenous Peoples”, aligning language with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
  • Replacing “members of visible minorities” with “racialized people” to better capture the impact of race-based exclusion.

Critically, the proposed amendments also adopt the Accessible Canada Act’s definition of disability. This modern, inclusive understanding sees disability not just as a physical or medical condition, but as a mismatch between individuals and the barriers in their environments. It embraces a social model of disability—centering dignity, accessibility, and the right to full participation in work and society.

Moving from Compliance to Commitment: Strengthening Employer Accountability

True equity is more than a legal checkbox—it’s an ongoing responsibility. Under the proposed changes, employers would be required to:

  • Proactively identify and dismantle systemic barriers in hiring, promotions, and retention.
  • Develop and implement equity plans in collaboration with affected employees and stakeholders.
  • Demonstrate ongoing progress—and not just intentions—toward equitable outcomes.
  • Reexamine traditional concepts like “merit”, which often mask hidden bias or structural advantage.

The goal? Embedding equity into the daily operations, culture, and values of an organization—not just its policies.

Building Trust Through Oversight and Shared Responsibility

Effective oversight is critical to meaningful change. The proposed reforms include:

  • The appointment of an Employment Equity Commissioner, equipped with the authority and resources to enforce the Act and guide employers.
  • Joint Employment Equity Committees, particularly in larger workplaces, to ensure equity initiatives are shaped by diverse voices and lived experiences.
  • New obligations for federal contractors, requiring any organization with contracts over $100,000 to mirror the employment equity standards.

A Broader, More Inclusive Reach

Recognizing that equity work must meet the realities of today’s workforce, the Act would expand its reach to federal workplaces with 10 or more employees, with obligations tailored to size and context.

This broader application ensures that dignity in the workplace isn’t a privilege limited to large organizations—it becomes a baseline for all.

Looking Ahead

While these recommendations have not yet been legislated, the federal government has expressed strong support for their direction. For employers, this is an opportunity—not just to prepare for regulatory change, but to become leaders in equity, dignity, and respect.

As of April 2025, the proposed changes to the Canadian Employment Equity Act (EEA)—including the adoption of the Accessible Canada Act’s definition of disability—have not yet been enacted into law. The federal government has expressed support for many of the recommendations from the Employment Equity Act Review Task Force’s final report, released in December 2023. However, specific legislation to implement these changes has not been introduced.

As a company committed to advancing dignity in the workplace, we welcome this vision for a more inclusive Canada. True equity honors the worth of every individual. These proposed changes challenge us to go beyond compliance and build cultures where everyone belongs, contributes, and thrives.

Employers and stakeholders should stay informed about legislative developments to prepare for potential updates to the EEA.

Reach out to Dignii for more information: [email protected]

Elisabeth Cooke
In , Inclusion

Why Healthy Teams Drive Stronger Business Outcomes

In fast-paced, high-stakes environments, business leaders are constantly looking for an edge. One of the most overlooked—but highest-impact—factors in performance is the health of internal teams. Research consistently shows that teams built on psychological safety, mutual respect, and inclusion across identity and background deliver stronger results across the board.

Key Benefits

  • Higher Performance: Google’s Project Aristotle found that psychological safety is the #1 predictor of team success. Teams with open communication and mutual trust are 25% more productive and 21% more profitable, according to Gallup.
  • Increased Innovation: Teams that bring together a wide range of life experiences generate more creative solutions. Boston Consulting Group reports 19% higher innovation revenue in such organizations.
  • Better Retention: Employees who feel safe, respected, and able to show up as themselves are far more likely to stay. Great Place to Work reports up to 50% lower turnover in inclusive environments.
  • Stronger Customer Connection: Teams that reflect the diversity of the markets they serve are better at delivering relevant, empathetic experiences—leading to 147% higher earnings per share, according to Temkin Group.

Leadership Implications

Healthy teams are not just a cultural asset—they’re a business multiplier. Leaders who invest in inclusive team dynamics, foster psychological safety, and encourage contribution from all voices will see better decision-making, faster innovation, and stronger results.

It’s not just about how well teams work together—it’s about who gets to be in the room, who gets heard, and who thrives once they’re there.

Elisabeth Cooke
In , Inclusion

Bridging the Gap: Navigating Generational Differences to Build a Healthier Workplace

The modern workplace has never been more diverse—not just in terms of background or identity, but in age and life stage. For the first time in history, it’s common to see four or even five generations working side by side: from Baby Boomers and Gen X, to Millennials, Gen Z, and even the first wave of Gen Alpha entering internships and early job roles.
While this multi-generational mix brings immense value, it can also introduce friction, misunderstanding, and mismatched expectations. To build a healthy workplace where all employees thrive, it’s essential to recognize the differences between generations—not as challenges to overcome, but as opportunities to grow stronger together.

Understanding the Generational Spectrum

Each generation brings unique strengths, shaped by the world they grew up in:

  • Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964) are known for their work ethic, loyalty, and deep institutional knowledge. They often value hierarchy and structure.
  • Gen X (1965–1980) is the bridge generation—independent, pragmatic, and often balancing leadership roles with caregiving responsibilities.
  • Millennials (1981–1996) brought digital fluency into the workplace. They value purpose, flexibility, and transparency.
  • Gen Z (1997–2012) is redefining work entirely. They expect inclusivity, mental health support, and work-life integration, not just balance..
  • Celebrating individual and collective wins, reinforcing shared values while honoring personal contributions.
  • Gen Alpha (2013–present) is still young, but they’ll grow up in a world of AI, remote-first work, and global collaboration from day one.

These generational lenses influence everything from communication styles and attitudes toward authority, to tech adoption, feedback preferences, and ideas of success.

The Hidden Cost of Misalignment

When generational differences go unaddressed, teams can suffer from:

  • Breakdowns in communication
  • Inefficiencies due to conflicting work styles
  • Lower morale or engagement
  • Generational bias or stereotyping
  • Missed opportunities for mentorship and innovation

This disconnect doesn’t just hurt team dynamics—it can affect retention, productivity, and culture.

The Power of Support and Intentional Culture

The key to thriving across generations is not to force everyone into the same mold, but to create an environment where all voices are heard and all needs are supported. That takes intentional effort, and more often than not, external or third-party support helps.

What Does Effective Support Look Like?
  • Intergenerational communication training to build empathy and adapt communication styles across age groups.
  • Well-being initiatives that are inclusive of different life stages—whether that’s mental health for younger workers, or caregiving support for older employees.
  • Mentorship programs that work both ways—pairing experienced employees with younger ones for skill-building and reverse mentoring for fresh perspectives.
  • Leadership coaching to help managers lead multi-generational teams with confidence, nuance, and emotional intelligence.
  • Third-party facilitators or consultants who can help organizations see blind spots and implement sustainable, culture-driven changes.

Why It Matters More Than Ever

As workplace expectations shift rapidly—driven by technology, economic uncertainty, and social change—it’s not enough to focus only on short-term performance. Companies that build healthy, multi-generational teams will be more innovative, more resilient, and better positioned for long-term success.
Workplaces that listen, learn, and evolve will attract and retain top talent from all age groups. They’ll turn generational tension into generational strength.

Final Thought

No generation has all the answers. But together, we have all the wisdom, creativity, and courage needed to build something better.
Investing in support systems that bridge the generational gap isn’t just good for culture—it’s smart business.

Elisabeth Cooke
In Diversity, Inclusion

Celebrating Black Canadians in British Columbia for Black History Month

Every February, Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on the rich and diverse contributions of Black Canadians to our society. While much of the focus tends to be on Eastern Canada, British Columbia has a long and inspiring Black history that deserves recognition. From pioneers and activists to artists and politicians, Black British Columbians have shaped the province in remarkable ways.

The Legacy of Black Pioneers in British Columbia

One of the earliest and most significant Black communities in British Columbia was established in the 1850s. A group of around 800 Black settlers, led by Mifflin Wistar Gibbs, arrived from California in response to an invitation from Governor James Douglas, who was himself of mixed-race heritage. These pioneers played a crucial role in building communities in places like Victoria and Salt Spring Island. They established businesses, built schools and churches, and even formed the Victoria Pioneer Rifle Corps, an all-Black militia.
Mifflin Wistar Gibbs became a prominent figure in B.C.’s history, becoming the first Black person elected to public office in Canada. His leadership and advocacy laid the groundwork for future generations of Black Canadians to engage in politics and public service.

Notable Black British Columbians

Beyond the early pioneers, many Black British Columbians have left an enduring impact on Canadian society. Here are just a few individuals who have shaped history and continue to inspire:

  • Hogan’s Alley and the Legacy of Nora Hendrix – Hogan’s Alley was the vibrant heart of Vancouver’s Black community from the early 1900s until the 1970s. Among its notable residents was Nora Hendrix, a community leader and grandmother of legendary musician Jimi Hendrix. She played a pivotal role in preserving Black culture in Vancouver and was one of the founders of the city’s first Black church.
  • Rosemary Brown – A trailblazer in Canadian politics, Rosemary Brown was the first Black woman elected to a provincial legislature in Canada. She represented Vancouver-Burrard in the B.C. Legislature from 1972 to 1986 and was a lifelong advocate for gender and racial equality.
  • Joe Fortes – A beloved figure in Vancouver’s history, Joe Fortes was a Barbadian immigrant who became the city’s first official lifeguard. He taught thousands of children to swim at English Bay and was so admired by the community that the city named a public library and a restaurant after him.
Black Communities in B.C. Today

Despite historical challenges, Black communities in British Columbia continue to thrive. Organizations such as the Hogan’s Alley Society work to preserve and celebrate Black history in Vancouver, while events like the Afro-Canadian Heritage Festival and Black History Month celebrations showcase the vibrancy of Black culture in the province.
Additionally, Black-owned businesses, artists, and activists continue to contribute to British Columbia’s cultural and economic landscape. Writers such as Wayde Compton, filmmakers like Selwyn Jacob, and community leaders like Stephanie Allen are ensuring that Black voices are heard, and history is remembered.

Honoring the Past and Looking Forward

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the past while also recognizing the work that still needs to be done. Issues like racial justice, housing inequities, and economic disparities persist, but the resilience of Black communities in British Columbia continues to inspire change.
This month, take time to learn more about Black history in B.C., support Black-owned businesses, attend cultural events, and amplify Black voices. By doing so, we can ensure that the legacy of Black British Columbians remains alive for generations to come.

Elisabeth Cooke
In Diversity, Inclusion

The Business Imperative of Diversity and Inclusion in Canada

In today’s rapidly evolving economy, Canadian businesses face a critical question: How can they attract top talent, drive innovation, and remain competitive in a global marketplace? The answer lies in a commitment to diversity, inclusion — not just as values, but as strategic business priorities.

Canada’s Competitive Advantage: A Diverse Workforce

Canada is one of the most diverse countries in the world, with over 23% of its population born outside the country and a workforce enriched by people from various cultural, racial, and professional backgrounds. Businesses that embrace this diversity are better positioned to:

✅ Enhance Innovation – Diverse teams bring fresh perspectives and creative problem-solving. Research shows that companies with inclusive cultures generate 19% more revenue from innovation than those without.
✅ Improve Decision-Making – Studies indicate that teams with varied backgrounds make better business decisions 87% of the time, leading to more effective strategies and outcomes
✅ Expand Market Reach – Understanding diverse customer bases is crucial. In a country where over 200 languages are spoken, businesses that reflect and respect this diversity connect more effectively with their audiences.

The Risks of Ignoring Diversity

Despite the clear advantages, many organizations still struggle to embed diversity and inclusion into their business strategy. Those that fail to act face:

🚨 Talent Drain – Today’s workforce, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, prioritize inclusive workplaces. Companies that don’t actively support diversity risk losing top talent to competitors that do.
🚨 Lower Employee Engagement – Employees who don’t feel valued or heard are less engaged and more likely to leave. Turnover due to poor workplace culture costs Canadian businesses billions each year.
🚨 Reputational & Legal Risks – As Canadian laws and regulations around workplace fairness continue to evolve, companies that neglect inclusion may face compliance challenges, public backlash, and potential legal repercussions.

Diversity in Action: How Leading Canadian Companies Are Thriving

Forward-thinking Canadian businesses are already seeing the benefits of prioritizing diversity and inclusion:

Shopify – The Ottawa-based e-commerce giant has built an inclusive culture by integrating diversity into recruitment, leadership development, and employee resource groups. Their commitment to inclusion has helped them attract world-class talent.
RBC – As one of Canada’s largest banks, RBC has made diversity a pillar of its business strategy, ensuring that its leadership, hiring, and mentorship programs reflect Canada’s rich diversity. This commitment has strengthened both employee engagement and customer trust.
Miovision – This Kitchener-based tech firm took a deliberate approach to inclusion, boosting employee engagement and increasing representation of women in tech roles by 40%.

The Path Forward: Advancing Dignity as a Business Strategy

Diversity and inclusion are not just checkboxes—they are powerful drivers of business success. Companies that embed these principles into their workplace culture, leadership, and decision-making create environments where employees thrive, innovation flourishes, and performance soars.

At Dignii, we help businesses turn workplace insights into action. Our solutions empower leaders to measure, track, and enhance diversity, engagement, and inclusion—driving real business results while Advancing Dignity in the workplace.

Is your organization ready to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce? Let’s start the conversation.

 

Contact Us

Elisabeth Cooke
In Dignity, Diversity, Inclusion

Advancing Dignity: The Key to a Thriving Workplace

In today’s evolving workforce, organizations that prioritize respect, equity, and engagement outperform their competitors. But how do leaders move beyond traditional diversity initiatives to create workplaces where every employee thrives? The answer lies in a data-driven approach to Advancing Dignity—ensuring that every team member feels valued, heard, and empowered.

Why Advancing Dignity Matters

Dignity in the workplace is more than a moral imperative—it’s a business strategy. Research shows that organizations with inclusive cultures experience:

✅ Higher employee engagement and retention
✅ Greater innovation and problem-solving
✅ Stronger business performance and customer satisfaction

When employees feel respected and included, they bring their best selves to work. They collaborate more effectively, take ownership of their roles, and drive meaningful results.

Measuring What Matters: Turning Insights into Action

Traditional diversity programs often fall short because they lack measurable impact. Leaders need real-time insights to understand workforce dynamics, uncover biases, and take meaningful action. With advanced workforce analytics, companies can:

📊 Identify patterns in engagement, inclusion, and performance
🔍 Reduce bias in hiring, promotions, and decision-making
📈 Track progress toward a more equitable and high-performing culture

By leveraging data, companies can make informed decisions that foster belonging, drive success, and Advance Dignity at every level.

Building a Culture of Belonging

Creating a thriving workplace isn’t just about policies—it’s about culture. Leaders who prioritize dignity:

🌟 Ensure every voice is heard and valued
🌟 Promote fair opportunities for growth and advancement
🌟 Foster an environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation

A culture of dignity doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentionality, measurement, and commitment. Organizations that embrace this mindset attract top talent, retain employees longer, and future-proof their success.

The Path Forward: Advancing Dignity Together

The future of work belongs to companies that recognize the power of dignity. By using data-driven insights, fostering inclusive cultures, and making strategic workforce decisions, organizations can unlock their full potential.

At Dignii, we help businesses measure and enhance workplace culture, ensuring that dignity remains at the heart of every decision. Ready to build a workplace where employees thrive? 

Let’s Advance Dignity together.

 

Contact Us

Elisabeth Cooke
In Announcements, Diversity, Inclusion

Dignii Achieves Certification from the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC)

Vancouver, BC — January 2025 — Dignii is proud to announce that it has received certification from the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), further solidifying our commitment to advance dignity. 

This prestigious certification recognizes Dignii as an 2SLGBTQI+ owned and operated business, marking a significant milestone in our journey to foster a more inclusive business community. The CGLCC certification not only acknowledges our dedication to supporting 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs but also connects us to a robust network of like-minded organizations and business leaders across Canada.

“At Dignii, we believe diversity drives innovation and strengthens communities by advancing dignity,” said Elisabeth Cooke, CEO. “Receiving this certification is an honor and a testament to the values we uphold every day. We are excited to join a growing network of businesses committed to building a brighter and more inclusive future.”

As a CGLCC-certified company, Dignii  will continue to advance dignity in hiring practices, workplace culture, and supplier partnerships. We are grateful for this recognition and look forward to leveraging this opportunity to drive positive change through our business practices.

For more information about Dignii and our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, please visit www.dignii.com.

About the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC)

The CGLCC is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and connecting the LGBTQ2+ business community. Through programs, partnerships, and advocacy, the CGLCC promotes economic growth and inclusion.

Elisabeth Cooke
In Diversity, Inclusion

Costco’s Commitment to DEI: Leading with Values and Integrity

Costco team members

If you need another reason to shop at Costco, here it is.

Recently Costco’s board of directors stood its ground and unanimously recommended that its shareholders vote against a proposal from a conservative think tank in the U.S. that would require Costco evaluate and issue a report on the financial risks of maintaining its diversity and inclusion goals.

The board was quick to note the think tank’s broader agenda is not reducing risk for the Company but abolition of diversity initiatives.

The board noted in their proxy statement that they believe their commitment to an enterprise rooted in respect and inclusion is appropriate and necessary.

I’m often asked for DEI success stories and Costco inadvertently delivers theirs in explaining their position:

Our success at Costco Wholesale has been built on service to our critical stakeholders: employees, members, and suppliers. Our efforts around diversity, equity and inclusion follow our code of ethics:

For our employees, these efforts are built around inclusion – having all of our employees feel valued and respected. Our efforts at diversity, equity and inclusion remind and reinforce with everyone at our Company the importance of creating opportunities for all. We believe that these efforts enhance our capacity to attract and retain employees who will help our business succeed. This capacity is critical because we owe our success to our now over 300,000 employees around the globe.

We welcome members from all walks of life and backgrounds. As our membership diversifies, we believe that serving it with a diverse group of employees enhances satisfaction. Among other things, a diverse group of employees helps bring originality and creativity to our merchandise offerings, promoting the “treasure hunt” that our customers value. That group also helps to provide insights into the tastes and preferences of our members. And we believe (and member feedback shows) that many of our members like to see themselves reflected in the people in our warehouses with whom they interact.

Then came the push back. A recent article in Bloomberg said it all, “Boycott Costco for its DEI Efforts? Good Luck with That”. 

Costco maintained its position and initiatives, noting its DEI efforts help the company attract and retain a wide range of employees and improve merchandise and services in stores. They went on to note its members want to interact with a diverse employee base – I feel seen! 

Costco is not the only global company pushing back against conservative proposals to drop DEI programs, Apple has been in the news this week for the same stance as the Costco board of directors. In their proxy statement Apple’s board of directors said:

Apple is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in recruiting, hiring, training or promoting on any basis protected by law.

I have been going to Costco for (gulp) decades as a single person and now as a family of four. Pretty much everything we need comes from Costco – including enough fruit and veg to open a farm stall at the end of our road. For the few friends we have that don’t shop at Costco, I’m quick to tell them what an incredible employer they are – and did you know what they’re doing to promote organic farming? They sell more organic produce than Whole Foods! 

I’m thankful (and relieved) to see Costco standing up for its values. I find it encouraging to see a global company clearly articulating the benefits of their DEI initiatives to employees and members. Now all I need is that elusive Kirkland sweatshirt. 

Elisabeth Cooke
CEO, Dignii Technologies, Inc
[email protected]

Close Menu