Disaster Recovery Journal Winter 2024

DEI – Back to the Basics By S. NICOLE SCOTT I f speaking about our differ ences makes you “uncom fortable,” I recommend you continue to scroll on. I wish you an enjoyable and productive day. Diversity is defined as the condition of having or being composed of differing ele ments; especially the inclusion of people of different races, cultures, etc. in a group or an

Now that we have a clear, correct, plain and simple English definition of those words, let’s begin to discuss why DEI is important in organizations and ultimately, during a crisis. DEI is not just about black, white, male or female, abilities and preferences. It is also about a business being able to thrive with multi-generational and multi cultural environments. Diversity refers to those who is repre sent your workforce. n Gender Diversity : What makes up the composition of men, women, and nonbinary people in a population? n Age Diversity : Are people in a group from mostly one generation, or is there a mix of ages? n Ethnic Diversity : Do people in a group share common national or cultural traditions, or do they represent different backgrounds?

If you are ready to have an “uncomfortably comfortable” dis cussion, then you are my people. Let’s discuss, shall we? My dearest reader, whether you call it DEI, EDI, IDE, IED – no matter how you arrange and re-arrange the letters – the purpose and the meaning behind them mean the same. Webster’s Dictionary defines diversity , equity and inclusion as the following:

organization. Equity is defined as justice according to natural law or right; specifically free dom from bias or favoritism; something that is equitable. Inclusion is defined as the act or practice of including and accommodat ing people who have historically been excluded (as because of their race, gender, sexuality, or ability).

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