Diversity, Equity & Inclusion For Dummies

Chapter 14

Launching DEI Councils and Employee Resource Groups

IN THIS CHAPTER

Recognizing DEI councils and Employee Resource Groups as separate but related units

Understanding why having an executive sponsor is so important

Creating DEI councils and Employee Resource Groups

DEI councils and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) aren’t new. They’re decades old and continue to evolve. In recent years they’ve taken on new meaning and new roles as companies focus on building more inclusive workplace cultures and expanding their brands and reputations with customers and communities. This chapter describes diversity councils and ERGs and how they differ and complement each other. It also offers a step-by-step guide for establishing both for your organization and includes some best practices for how companies are utilizing them for business success.

DEI councils originally were (and sometimes still are) called “diversity councils” because the focus was mainly on diversity. However, as diversity initiatives have evolved to include equity and inclusion, the term DEI councils has become more commonplace. ...