In the Room Where It Happens

If you are a fan of the Broadway musical, HAMILTON, then you recognize the reference to this song.

My role as the DEIA Consultant for a client organization’s project that has the overall mission of building better medicine in the Petersburg-Richmond, Virginia region makes me accountable to ensure that equity plans are imbued. The initiative includes four opportunity areas: biotechnology innovation, talent pathways, jobs, and supply chain diversity for which diverse inclusive voices are integral to the growth of the pharma industry.

The excitement and importance of bringing some capabilities to manufacture medicines back to the United States appears to be falling on non comprehensive ears as very few, if any, BIPOC companies and leaders currently have knowledge of this initiative.

In today's increasingly interconnected and diverse world, the significance of inclusive voices at the decision-making table cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to issues affecting communities of color or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color). Inclusivity is not just a buzzword; it is a fundamental principle that drives equitable and just outcomes, fosters social cohesion, and enriches the quality of decision-making processes.

Historically marginalized communities, such as communities of color or BIPOC, have faced systemic discrimination, exclusion, and disproportionate challenges in various aspects of life, including education, healthcare, housing, employment, and more. These challenges are often perpetuated by policies, practices, and decisions made without the representation and input of those directly affected. This absence of diverse voices in decision-making can affect inequalities, reinforce bias, and amplify the influences of systemic injustices.

Bringing inclusive voices to the table involves inviting representatives from diverse backgrounds, especially those from BIPOC communities, businesses, and nonprofits that can influence better outcomes. Here are some compelling reasons why this is crucial:

1. Authentic Perspective:

Including individuals from BIPOC communities ensure that decisions are informed by authentic and lived experiences. These perspectives offer valuable insights into the unique challenges, needs, and aspirations of these communities, which may otherwise be overlooked.

2. Addressing Blind Spots:

Homogeneous decision-making groups are prone to developing blind spots. Inclusive voices can help identify biases, assumptions, and gaps in understanding that might hinder the effectiveness of policies or initiatives, ensuring a more comprehensive and nuanced approach.

3. Enhanced Decision Quality:

Diverse voices contribute to well-rounded discussions that consider a wide range of viewpoints. This diversity of thought leads to more thorough analyses and creative problem-solving, ultimately resulting in higher-quality decisions that better address complex issues.

4. Accountability and Transparency:

Inclusive decision-making fosters a sense of accountability. When representatives from these communities are present, the decision-makers are more likely to consider the potential impacts of their choices on marginalized groups, leading to more transparent and fair processes.

5. Trust-Building:

Including a diverse range of voices builds trust within marginalized communities. When individuals see their perspectives being valued and integrated into decision-making, they are more likely to engage in the process and believe that their concerns are being taken seriously.

6. Equitable Outcomes:

Inclusive decision-making helps mitigate the perpetuation of inequalities. Policies and initiatives that are informed by the experiences of communities of color or BIPOC are more likely to result in equitable outcomes that address systemic injustices.

7. Social Cohesion:

Inclusion generates a sense of belonging and unity. When marginalized communities are included, it promotes social cohesion by dismantling barriers that have historically divided society along racial or ethnic lines.

8. Innovation and Creativity:

Diverse perspectives foster innovation by encouraging the exploration of different ideas, approaches, and solutions. The inclusion of voices from these communities can lead to novel insights that drive positive change.

9. Long-Term Sustainability:

Decisions made with inclusive voices at the table are more likely to stand the test of time. They are rooted in a deeper understanding of the complexities and dynamics at play, making them more adaptable to evolving circumstances.

10. Ethical Imperative:

It is fundamentally just and ethical to include those affected by decisions in the decision-making process. Excluding voices from communities of color perpetuates a history of marginalization and disenfranchisement.

In practice, achieving inclusive decision-making requires intentional efforts. Organizations and institutions must actively seek out diverse voices, create safe spaces for open dialogue, and ensure that power dynamics are balanced to prevent tokenism. Empowering representatives from communities of color or BIPOC with the resources, information, and authority they need to contribute meaningfully is also crucial.

In conclusion, having inclusive voices at the decision-making table creates a fair, just, and equitable society.

” … No one really knows how the parties get to "Yes"

The pieces that are sacrificed in every game of chess

We just assume that it happens

But no else is in the room where it happens”

Song by Lin-Manuel Miranda

IN THE ROOM WHERE IT HAPPENS, take your seat at the table!

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