“We're going to lead with inclusion, because we need a world where inclusion is front and center. And that means inclusion for all, not some people. Everyone has a right to feel that they belong in the workplace and that they are included.” – Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, Today, SHRM announces an important shift in our approach to Inclusion and Diversity. Effective immediately, SHRM will be adopting the acronym "I&D" instead of "IE&D." This strategic decision underscores our commitment to leading with Inclusion as the catalyst for holistic change in workplaces and society. As SHRM President & CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP shared in his #SHRM24 Main Stage address, this new focus highlights SHRM's role as the foremost expert and advocate in workplace Inclusion and Diversity. By emphasizing Inclusion-first, we aim to address the current shortcomings of DE&I programs, which have led to societal backlash and increasing polarization. While we shift to I&D, our commitment to advancing Equity remains steadfast. Equity will be integrated under the broader Inclusion framework, continuing to be a priority in our strategy and leadership decisions. SHRM is excited to lead this initiative as the next step in our enduring commitment to fostering better workplaces and a better world. We encourage you to adopt an Inclusion-first approach within your own organizations and join us in creating meaningful change. Let's drive change together. Adopt I&D today and be part of the movement. #InclusionAndDiversity #WorkplaceChange #Leadership
You’re irreparably, irredeemably, broken.
"Equity will be integrated under the broader Inclusion framework" ... What? Why would SHRM take the stance that Equity can be absorbed under the inclusion umbrella when there is still, to this day, so many issues with equity in the workplace? Equity needs to continue to be at the forefront of all DE&I efforts because there's a MAJOR issue with equity in the workplace. I know of multiple peers who are combatting the lack of equitable treatment in the workplace. Equity and Inclusion are very different and should be treated as such. This feels very much like "all lives matter" and I couldn't be more disappointed. Do better, SHRM.
Words have power and meaning. SHRM's approach can be inclusion led — no issues there. But lopping off equity but stating it will still be "supported" speaks volumes. This change, which is completely unnecessary, is only going to cause backlash. And maybe that was the intent, to create a splash and to get people talking about SHRM again. Keeping IE&D, would still allow for an emphasis on your "commitment to leading with Inclusion as the catalyst for holistic change in workplaces and society."
This is extremely disheartening. You can’t push inclusion and eliminate equity! You just can’t! Equity is not just a buzzword; it is the foundation for fostering an environment where all employees have equal opportunities to succeed. By focusing on diversity and inclusion without addressing systemic barriers, we risk undermining the very progress we strive to achieve. It’s sad! For professionals are investing in this organization, spending thousands of dollars on conferences, SHRM test study materials AND the test itself (that they may have to take more than once) and this has become the standard?? We need to stop running away from the hard conversations, and instead strive to tackle them and move forward.
This makes no sense
You were already leading with inclusion under "IE&D" so you're just STRIPPING AWAY the equity focus it appears? Quite disturbing. I just attended your annual conference in June so I'm sure this announcement was held till after that event passed. I find this disturbing. I recently reached out about the certification process but if you're no longer leading with equity, it's hard to imagine why I would want to connect deeper with this organization. Thank you for showing us who you REALLY are. I have NEVER wanted an angry react option on LinkedIn till now...
This is BACKWARDS. The reason why some many of us can't move forward because SYSTEMATICALLY you will push narratives that exclude things that advance us. I wonder who complained about this enough to make you all AGREE that removing "equity" would be easier. NO! Equity will be the approach. It was always the NORTH STAR. We're not going backward with you. WE'RE NOT DOING THAT.
Sr. HR Business Partner at KeyBank
5moA disappointing announcement from SHRM. We are in a time where we need more organizations fighting for diversity, equity, and inclusion instead of kowtowing to political adversity. Fight fear and misunderstanding with truth. Inclusion and equity have purposely been separated and for good reason - they require different discussions and approaches. Inclusion does not guarantee equity. As others have rightfully called out, it is easy to see through this "rebranding" for what it actually is.