Why Aren't People Praising DEI by Highlighting Hires like Simone Biles, Suni Lee, and Gabby Thomas?
Eboo Patel's recent USA Today article on DEI and the Olympics (https://lnkd.in/g7QvhWqd), spotlighting athletes like Simone Biles and Suni Lee, offers insights that resonate beyond sports. It emphasizes DEI as more than a concept—it's a unifying force that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds to achieve excellence. This is particularly relevant for Black religious organizations, especially in the relationships they build with their vendors, suppliers, and partners.
At Nonprofit Fundraising Management (NFM), we believe DEI should be a foundational principle in all aspects of an organization's operations, not just within the congregation but also in the external partnerships that sustain the organization. Just as the U.S. Olympic teams draw strength from their diverse identities, Black religious organizations can push for DEI advocacy with their vendors.
Supporting DEI with vendors—whether banks, suppliers, or service providers—is a powerful way for Black religious organizations to extend their influence and commitment to social justice. By partnering with vendors who prioritize DEI, religious organizations can drive systemic change beyond their walls.
How Black Religious Organizations Can Advocate for DEI with Vendors:
Evaluate Vendor DEI Practices: When selecting service providers, inquire about their DEI policies. Partner with those committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Promote DEI Standards: Work with current vendors to adopt DEI standards, including diverse hiring practices, equitable pay, and inclusive work environments.
Collaborate for Change: Engage vendors in supporting DEI initiatives within the broader community through joint projects or financial support.
Hold Vendors Accountable: Include DEI in vendor agreements, ensuring it's a requirement for maintaining a partnership.
By taking these steps, Black religious organizations can play a crucial role in promoting DEI beyond their immediate influence. Just as the Olympics demonstrate the strength that comes from embracing diversity, these organizations can help build a more equitable and inclusive society by advocating for DEI with their vendors.
In doing so, they enhance their operations and set a powerful example for others to follow. Let's take inspiration from the U.S. Olympic teams and apply those lessons to our vendor relationships. By pushing for DEI advocacy, we can create a ripple effect that benefits everyone, paving the way for a more just and inclusive future.
Founder/Principal at Pointe Black Ltd | Deputy Programme Manager for the National Audit of Dementia at The Royal of Psychiatrists
1moThis looks wonderful and is so needed for our young girls. Would love to have ballet on the programme next time! 🙌🏾🙌🏾