DEI is an active and conscious commitment to build diversity, strive for equity, and foster inclusion.
What it is:
- Subtitles & captions on TV and your phone
- Ramps and curb cuts on sidewalks for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues
- Family restrooms and changing tables in all restrooms, including men’s rooms
- Breastfeeding/pumping stations and supportive accommodations
- Floating paid holidays to use for family situations
- Flexible work arrangements
- Parental leave that covers both time and pay
- A smooth return to work after having a child
- Family and medical leave act
- Pay equity and transparency
- Not having to tolerate workplace harassment
- Work accommodations for a variety of disabilities
- Size-inclusive chairs and beds in healthcare settings
- Belt extenders on planes
- Food options for vegetarians, vegans, kosher, gluten-free diets, etc., at medical facilities
- Non-smoking areas (and an end to indoor smoking)
- The ability to have your preferred name used by coworkers and medical professionals
- Wellness programs with real incentives
- More relaxed and inclusive dress code policies
- Spaces to pray or meditate at work and in public
- Employee recognition programs and resource groups
- Large print materials and translations in different languages
- Accessible bikes and public transit accommodations
- Options beyond a fully cashless business model
- Company-covered mental/behavioral health resources
- Multiple religious options at hospitals
What it isn’t:
- Hiring someone under-qualified just because of their race, sexual orientation or religion
- Hiring based solely on disability to hit diversity numbers (which is illegal)
- A new buzzword—it’s been happening for years, just under different names
DEI isn’t just a checklist—it’s about creating real, inclusive, and equitable spaces for everyone.
