As we close Women’s History Month, I reflect on the theme of one special day: International Women’s Day. “Embracing Equity” – our theme and battle cry for this month and onward.  I believe it is the responsibility of those who have full support to extend support to those who do not.  In this case, I ask you to turn your attention to Diversity and Inclusion Practitioners.

As many of you know, this group of professionals remains on the front lines of leading tough work in organizations.  And although George Floyd’s murder allowed many to see what had not been seen and created more room for the work, it still remains tough.

In my role at Illumina, I am fortunate to work in an organization that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.  To unlock the power of the genome for human health means we are working to make the science of genetics available and valuable to everyone.  Access is a key component of all of this.  So the executives I work with are focused on how we can build DEI inside of Illumina to export to the world.  I’m fortunate.  As you embrace equity, I am asking to make sure you’re paying attention to your teams leading the diversity charge.  Not all of them have full support. And I submit that many are pushing boulders up hills that most of you will not see.  So when you look at your organization and wonder why the Diversity Leader or team has not done something, pause and ask what has held them back.  And after that, show your support by asking, “how can I help?”  While these leaders’ challenges often go unseen, the expectations and perceived failures are often public.

Support your Diversity teams.  They won’t ask because they focus on supporting you, but know they need support too.

I have known of too many situations where Diversity Leaders are forced out.  Their crime is not a failure to do the job. The challenge was doing it too well, moving things forward more quickly than comfortable for some of those in power.  It happens.  Occupational hazard, I suppose.  Just know that your expressed support will mean the world to them, as the support I receive means so much to me.  Be generous with it.  They need that infusion of support to keep pushing boulders when it seems no one really cares.

Now clearly, I ask you to extend this kind of support to any and all women.  As we strengthen one, we strengthen all.  Let’s keep fighting.  We are headed somewhere – to a warm hug, a hug of equity.

#EmbraceEquity, everybody.  Happy Women’s History Month.

Dr. Lisa Toppin

Our theme song is “Wind Beneath My Wings” sung by Bette Midler.

Image via www.internationalwomensday.com