George Floyd. Breonna Taylor. Ahmaud Arbery.
We say their names. Not just as the stewards for diversity & inclusion within our organizations, but because we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of employees and our neighbors.
The events of the past few weeks break our hearts and remind us that we have much work to do as a nation, as individuals, and as HR professionals. The events also focus minds on unconscious biases and the quiet and sometimes not so quiet racism that exists in the workplace and in the community. That work has begun; we are so proud of this statement issued by our friends at SHRM, which outlines HR’s position to effect change.
Racism didn’t disappear with Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, and it didn’t melt under the weight of the 1964 Civil Rights Acts. Everyone recognizes the need for action beyond words, and this is how we view our responsibility as an organization.
The people of Strategic HR U.S. pledge to live our values each day, in pursuit of justice and equality for individuals of all backgrounds. There are four pillars to our existing values system – progressive education, family, unique experiences, and community. They are refreshed now with a sense of urgency.
- Progressive Education. The presentations on our stages will continue to challenge HR leadership pursuit of diversity of people and diversity of ideas.
- Family. For almost 40 years, we’ve operated as a Mom and Pop company. Valuing and respecting our employees and audiences will remain central to who we are.
- Unique Experiences. We will discover new ways to create conference environments that promote conversation, understanding, support, and growth.
- Community. To come together as one. When HR thrives – so do employers and employees, with an exponential spillover effect on neighboring communities.
