The “B” Word

Everyone's talking about BELONGING! The word is showing up in mission statements and strategic plans, and added to the end of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

What does it mean to add the "B" to DEI? According to this NYT article (“Why Some Companies Are Saying Diversity and Belonging…”), it's about universalizing DEI training to make DEI more palatable and inclusive - to all.

Actually we still very much need the awareness and accountability of quality DEI training which exposes the inequities, privilege, barriers and biases that hold some down and elevate others. Let’s not lose that!

But YES to adding the B – not just through more training (you can’t train for belonging!), but by intentionally building a culture (beliefs, practices, roles, traditions, habits) that embeds belonging into every aspect of your organization.

This is the kind of systemic belonging that sustains diversity and boosts bottom-line metrics – from retention and productivity to collaboration and innovation.

If you see the “B” word ask “what does belonging mean here, who is it for, and how is it built?” If it’s just a letter, a word or a training, and if it ignores institutional power structures and inequities, beware! Do the hard work to create a culture of belonging for all.