We know that our systems need fixing. Our institutions are often at best not built for purpose and at worst work actively against our communities. At New Angles, we are committed to changing the paradigm – to building systems that are a force for good. We work to change business for good; but business cannot be good if it is not inclusive.
We should hold ourselves, particularly our leaders, to a higher standard of accountability. As we work with businesses, organizations and Impact Pioneers to identify areas for improvement, growth and inclusion, we know firsthand that diversity drives innovation and performance. If we don’t allow all voices at the table, there is no way to build back better. Internal evaluation can be uncomfortable (indeed change almost always is) but in identifying how we can shift our models towards inclusivity will yield high payoffs in terms of the quality of collaboration within business..
As we seek to move towards a more sustainable future in business, diversity and inclusion must be a focal point. We cannot address the issue of sustainability and change without first addressing the injustice, inequity and violence being faced by our communities of colour. Just talking about it is not enough — it’s time to do the work.
It’s important to ask the hard questions, to be clear with ourselves about what actions we are taking today to be actively anti-racist.
- How are we educating ourselves and our stakeholders about structural racism and the positive impact that diversity has on the quality of collaboration and innovation?
- How are we ensuring that there is space for the conversation around race to take place in our organizations in a way that is inclusive and engaging?
- How are we as an organization supporting BIPOC (black, Indigenous and people of colour) within our own team and ecosystem? How can we go a step further?
The need for change is increasingly urgent. As we tackle issues of racism, climate change, COVID-19, it is essential that we look inward to take stock of business as usual to truly understand the vital need to build back better. At New Angles, we will continue to have these conversations with our team to ensure that we are putting active engagement behind our words. A better future is possible – but it only counts if it is built for all of us.