Over the past 16 years at Xenium HR, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with many talented colleagues. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with one of them, Shastina Young, to discuss a topic that’s deeply important to our entire organization, as it’s a core value: equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB) in the workplace.
Why EDIB Matters
In our conversation, Shastina shared, “As a woman of color, it’s always been important to me. I’m also a sociology major, so I’ve always been intrigued and curious about people and behaviors.” This personal connection underscores why EDIB isn’t just a corporate initiative—it’s a fundamental aspect of creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and included.
Moving Beyond “Check the Box”
We reflected on how, pre-pandemic, many organizations treated diversity initiatives as a formality. “A lot of what I heard was either crickets—so nothing at all—or they were in their beginning stages,” Shastina noted. But times have changed. Employees now expect more, and businesses are recognizing the tangible benefits of genuine EDIB efforts.
The Genesis of Our Equity Team
Our EDIB journey began at Xenium in 2018. Leadership recognized the need for expert guidance, so we partnered with external consultants to assess our current state and identify areas for improvement. This journey led to the formation of our Equity Team, a volunteer-based group drawn from every department in the company.
Structured for Impact
Our Equity Team operates through three main pillars:
- Invest in Our People: This pillar, focused on providing learning opportunities, organizes training and events that promote equity and inclusion internally. “We wanted to create something more frequent and ongoing,” Shastina explained.
- Look Beyond Our Four Walls: This group builds partnerships with external organizations, promotes volunteerism, and amplifies events that support underrepresented communities.
- Cultural Belonging and Career Support: This pillar is dedicated to cultivating a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. It emphasizes the importance of representation. “We believe that representation matters,” Shastina affirmed.
Each subcommittee operates with autonomy, allowing passionate team members to drive initiatives they’re genuinely excited about.
Introducing XenConnex
One of the most impactful programs born from these efforts is XenConnex—a monthly, 30-minute virtual gathering open to all employees. These sessions cover a range of topics, from Black Heritage Month to neurodiversity in the workplace.
“Our purpose is to share perspectives and learn from each other on different topics related to EDIB,” Shastina said. Participation is voluntary and discussion-based, providing a relaxed environment for learning and connection.
A Personal Revelation
I recall being invited to a meeting about enhancing our website’s representation. The energy in the room was noticeable. “I have to be a part of this,” I thought. Witnessing the collaboration and passion firsthand convinced me to join the Equity Team.
Looking Ahead
As we continue this journey, Shastina envisions our efforts enriching our internal culture and benefiting the clients we serve. “Our clients and partners know that they have an ally and that we’re that much better in partnership because of our ongoing commitment,” she said.
Actionable Steps for Leaders
For organizations looking to embark on or deepen their EDIB journey, here are some takeaways from our experience:
- Start with Genuine Commitment: Ensure leadership is supportive and actively involved.
- Form Diverse Committees: Include team members from all departments to bring varied perspectives.
- Create Clear Pillars and Actions: Define your mission and establish actionable goals.
- Foster Open Dialogue: Programs like XenConnex can facilitate ongoing learning and conversation.
- Celebrate Progress and Stay the Course: Recognize that this is an ongoing commitment requiring dedication and adaptability.
Implementing EDIB strategies is more than just a business imperative; it’s about building a workplace where everyone feels they belong. As leaders, we have the responsibility and the opportunity to make this a reality. Let’s move from values to action together.