From the archive: June 12th 2020 shared on LinkedIn.
Back in 2017, I wrote a piece around diversity in the events industry, or more specifically the lack of it. It is eye-opening to me that reading it three years later - nothing has changed - we are still having the same conversation.
I am guilty of taking my foot off the pedal and not pushing hard enough to make real actionable changes. The fact I was able to do that is completely down to my privilege as a white person, who has never faced any discrimination and benefitted from the current status quo.
That is something I am completely committed to changing - to be a real ally and push forward the changes that need to happen.
Go and read the 2017 post, because whilst it may be 3 years old - everything discussed is (sadly) still relevant
What Steps Can We Take Now, in 2020, to really make a change?
Understand that white privilege has benefitted us to reach the positions we are in now.
Recognise and combat unconscious bias. Introduce training into the company.
Look at where you are advertising job opportunities. Do a deep dive into who has applied for roles in the last few years, where you are putting out the information. Expand beyond your current networks.
Introduce interview quotes.
Talk to kids in schools, not just those at university. Educate young people about the range of amazing roles available in the events industry.
Look to the apprenticeship programmes. Consider if you need everyone with a degree?! (answer to that is you don't)
Create a culture and environment where employees are able to talk openly about mental health, LGBTQ+, race etc