The Necessary Journey

More about the book

Dr. Ella F. Washington poses a thought-provoking question to companies: "What does a workplace utopia look like to you?" Many envision an organization that prioritizes diversity and inclusion, allowing employees to be their authentic selves. However, while organizations aspire to this ideal, they often struggle with the complexities of achieving it. Too many treat diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as mere programs rather than recognizing them as essential, ongoing journeys. Creating a genuinely inclusive workplace demands innovation, humility, adaptability, self-reflection, and sometimes significant sacrifice. The path to inclusivity is challenging, but it is navigable with support. This exploration includes stories from companies like Slack, Kaiser Permanente, and PwC, sharing insights from their leaders about successes, failures, and the ongoing work needed to foster inclusivity. These narratives highlight the perseverance of individuals who acknowledge the necessity of inclusive workplaces while recognizing the distance still to travel. Drawing on her extensive experience as a DEI leader across various industries, Washington offers a framework for assessing your organization's journey toward inclusivity. Progress is hard-earned, but as John Lewis aptly stated, "You see something you want to get done, you cannot give up, and you cannot give in."