In this powerful end-of-year episode of Conversations with Carole, Carole Copeland Thomas delivers an inspiring message about resilience and action in the face of challenges to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Reflecting on the transformative events of 2024, Carole highlights both setbacks and triumphs in the fight for equity and justice, urging listeners to take proactive steps in supporting organizations that remain committed to DEI principles.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Current Landscape of DEI: Carole reviews the pressures on corporations and organizations to back away from DEI initiatives, spurred by well-funded, anti-DEI campaigns and legal challenges linked to recent Supreme Court rulings.
• Highlighting DEI Champions: Carole celebrates two standout organizations—Northeast Human Resources Association (NEHRA) and Costco—for their unwavering commitment to DEI in the face of external pressures.
   
  • NEHRA’s Stand: Despite its larger affiliate SHRM removing "equity" from its framework, NEHRA reaffirmed its dedication to DEI values, setting an example of principled leadership.
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  • Costco’s Commitment: Costco defended its DEI programs against shareholder proposals to eliminate them, demonstrating the value of inclusion in driving innovation and operational success.
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• Introducing PRA for DEI: Carole unveils the Positive Reward Actions strategy, a practical four-step framework for supporting organizations that uphold DEI values.

PRA for DEI Framework:

1. Identify Champions: Recognize organizations, big or small, that boldly support DEI.
2. Specific Actions: Highlight the concrete steps these organizations take to resist anti-DEI pressures.
3. Reward Their Efforts: Write letters of appreciation, support their products, or spread the word on social media.
4. Separate Them from Crowd Pleasers: Distinguish these committed organizations from those who have merely performed lip service to DEI goals.

Call to Action:
Carole invites listeners to join her in 2025 by identifying and celebrating DEI champions. She encourages listeners to:

• Share examples of champion organizations via email (details in the show notes).
• Actively support companies and groups that resist pressures to compromise on DEI.
• Continue the conversation on social media using #DEIChampions and #PRAforDEI.

Resources Mentioned:

• Links to articles on NEHRA and Costco’s DEI efforts (included in show notes).

Newsweek Article

https://www.newsweek.com/costco-board-shareholder-dei-hiring-2006717

• Information about Project 2025 and its implications for DEI.

www.project2025.org

Happy New Year!
As Carole says, "The best is yet to come." Start 2025 with a renewed commitment to championing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Stay bold, brave, and buoyant!