WGR’s second annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Summit concluded on July 22 after bringing together nearly 300 government relations professionals. This year’s theme, Forward Together, recognized the DEI challenges that we are
facing and provided the opportunity to reflect on and learn from the past while positioning ourselves to lead for the future.
Day 1: Diversity
We opened the day with a Launch Presentation from Dr. Janice Underwood which focused on the current state of diversity, equity & inclusion, and the importance of allyship in navigating this space.
The two concurrent panel discussions focused on the need for greater diversity within the field of government relations, and the importance of partnering with universities to help build a more diverse corporate pipeline.
We rounded out the day’s focus with two powerful workshops: From the AAPI community, discussing solutions for addressing racism; and from an organizational lens, learning about a proven, continuous improvement model for maximizing your impact in DEI work.
Day 2: Equity
Ericka Hines, Principal at Every Level Leadership, launched the day with an invitation to collective action that advances more equitable futures.
The Town Hall discussion highlighted the conditions that are necessary for organizations to create more equitable atmospheres that support staff to thrive.
We rounded out the day’s focus with two powerful workshops: one sharpened our skills for DEI-orientated workplace conversations, the other provided problem-solving strategies that we can apply in our DEI efforts to advance DEI across contexts.
Day 3: Inclusion
We opened the day with a Fireside Chat between two industry thought-leaders, who discussed the importance of workplace cultures that establish a sense of belonging and actions we can take to provide more inclusive spaces.
The concurrent workshops focused on skill-building for living the work -- one focused on seeding and sustaining organizational DEI strategies, while the other honed the knowledge, skills and abilities required for inclusive leadership.
We rounded out the day’s focus with a dynamic panel discussion, which explored the opportunities and tensions around incorporating inclusion into the workplace.
Each day concluded with networking breakout rooms to allow for attendees to discuss and debrief what they learned throughout the summit. We are so grateful for our volunteers and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee for making this event a success. We are excited for our third annual summit in 2022!
Continue the conversation by joining the next Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Monthly Meeting. Register here.
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