Spread the words: Download our free diversity, equity, and inclusion glossary

In the modern workplace, the business case for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) is clear. Three consecutive reports from McKinsey show how the relationship between diversity and performance has strengthened over time, and 95% of participants in a 2021 survey of 200 CEOs said DE&I is a focus for their companies over the next one or two years. 

These stats indicate the strength of intention when it comes to DE&I. But two out of five CEOs from the same survey said they don’t have a DE&I strategy, and, among those with a plan, 25% said they had not yet moved forward with any of their DE&I objectives. 

What can we do about the gap between intention and reality? And how can we be more deliberate about our intentions with DE&I?

DE&I is about listening

Forget about the business case for a minute, and think about the last time you felt welcome, included, and safe. Chances are this experience involved feeling heard, and being surrounded by people who communicate in a language that you feel validated and included by.

Each of us has a unique perspective in navigating the world that is shaped by our experience, community, and culture. We can only understand one another if we’re willing to listen and learn. Words and communication are at the heart of how we do both, so we’ve built a glossary of terms that are important for diversity, inclusion, and equity.

Go beyond simply knowing definitions

This glossary is our understanding of common language related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Words, like people, are imperfect and ever-evolving, so we’ll work hard to keep this up to date. Download it here and use it to support, listen to, and learn from the people around you!