I consider equity, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I) a cornerstone to every successful workplace, however big or small. It is a common misconception that only minorities benefit from ED&I and that an average employee remains unaffected by it. Why? Because positive changes to ED&I support everyone, not just minorities, even if such changes address the minorities the most. For example, flexible working arrangements do not assist just carers; they allow everyone to achieve a better work-life balance. Because of this wide-scope impact, ED&I increases employee satisfaction and makes a workplace overall more productive. Not only is there a work culture shift, but also an economic advantage for the business: it simply pays off to invest in ED&I.
As an openly gay Polish immigrant, ED&I is important to me. Throughout my life, I came out to many colleagues, clients, and collaborators, and I will come out to many more. By working for an employer who understands this and creates a psychologically safe environment for me to do so, I can bring my authentic self to work. Instead of wasting my energy on staying in the closet, pretending to be someone I am not, I can use it to be better at work. It is a win-win situation for both me and the employer. For the same reason, I would not be able to work for an employer who does not understand the importance of ED&I. Ultimately, anyone can leave a job, but no one should leave themselves behind.
Jakub Luczak - Member of the ED&I Committee