Hi friends, today’s the day!! Our first full-length podcast episode of Are You Mad At Me? is OUT now! Please follow, rate, and leave a review if you haven't already. We’ll totally think you’re mad at us if you don’t…

Tunes of the day: We’re selfishly linking to the first episode here. We hope you love it!

Have a Q for us for WorkDaze or the podcast? We wanna hear it here! 

Why Diversity and Inclusion Policies Matter in the Workplace

Today’s WorkDaze may seem a little different than normal. While we love to be fun and take you back to the 2000s with throwbacks and YouTube clips, we’ve seen recent headlines about diversity and equality in the workplace that are worth a conversation. A convo that’s a lot more important than Michael Scott could ever have…

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) refers to policies and initiatives supporting people from all backgrounds at companies and educational institutions. These programs provide resources and support for individuals to perform to their fullest. 

Pretty important if you ask us, but various companies and colleges have recently been walking back their DEI policies, causing the shutdown of programs and groups created to help bridge the inequality gap. Some instances include: 

• Alabama’s recent statewide legislation restricts public universities and state agencies from giving resources to DEI programs. The University of Alabama’s Black Student Union office, which offered resources for Black students at a predominantly white school, was displaced because of the legislation.

• Big companies, including Harley Davidson, Lowe’s, Ford, and Tractor Supply Co., have announced they’re pulling back their DEI efforts. Tractor Supply is going as far as getting rid of jobs specifically focused on DEI and putting an end to sponsoring LGBTQ+ Pride festivals and voting initiatives. Giant thumbs down!!! 👎

A statement from Orlando Gonzales, senior vice president of programs, research, and training at the Human Rights Campaign, says that the cutting back of such policies will lead to long-term consequences, including the loss of top talent and customers.

But, while some companies are taking steps back, many continue to hold strong or even double down on their DEI initiatives. A recent report by Bridge Partners found:

• 72% of C-suite and HR leaders plan to build and enhance their existing DEI programs within the next two years

• 94% of individuals surveyed believe DEI is important for positive impact on recruiting, hiring, and retention

• 74% think DEI programs improve a company’s reputation with customers and the public

• 68% say DEI brings innovation and creativity

Without DEI initiatives comes the risk of marginalized groups not feeling a sense of safety or belonging in the workplace and not receiving the same opportunities as their colleagues.

Does your work have a DEI policy? We’d love to hear about some initiatives they’ve created that have worked to foster diversity and equality. Reply to this email and let us know.

Have a Q for us that you want featured on Are You Mad At Me? or in WorkDaze? We wanna hear it here! 

…after online shopping for Halloween decorations during an off-camera meeting.

A delicious sweet treat that’s as easy as pie (pun intended) to make? Sign us up. Check out Cookies and Cups’ Peanut Butter Cup (basically) No-Bake dessert recipe on TikTok!

We’re high-key obsessed with Useless Farm on TikTok, specifically any and all videos that involve Karen the Emu.

Gabi recently watched Ilana Glazer’s new movie Babes on a plane ride and audibly laughed multiple times. I’m sure the people sitting in the same row loved it. Sorry, not sorry!

Thanks so much for reading today! Don’t forget to follow, rate, listen, and review our first episode of Are You Mad At Me? Love ya, mean it!

—Rod and Gabi