PART 1 QUICK TAKES

Difference leads to better outcomes | Although the evidence is not unequivocal when it comes to identity differences, it is clear that well-managed identity differences produce better outcomes. They are particularly strong in predictive markets.

“Cultural fit” can be a dangerous measuring stick | Understanding what your culture is before committing to cultural fit is a step toward inclusion, if you choose to change the aspects of your culture that are unwelcoming to racial diversity.

Race equity and capitalism are incompatible | Incompatibility doesn’t mean impossible. In science, we know that volatile compounds can be stable and generally safe until a charge or other catalyst is added. Conflict is inherent in diversity.

Pursuing race equity will cost you | I don’t know of a change effort that comes at no cost, but the costs associated with race equity come with greater political implications. You have to decide whether these are costs you are willing to incur.

EXCERPTS

“The more diversity brought to bear on a problem, process, or innovation, the
less likely it will be mired in group think, and the higher quality the solution.”

“Race equity confronts the very foundation of American capitalism, which means American capitalists who want to pursue equity must determine how much capitalism they are willing to turn their back on.”

“Doing right by your community in a meaningful way and still focusing on the bottom line is possible.”

“If a company is committed to equity and engaging in equitable practices, the demographics of a company rooted in a particular geographic area will look far more like the population of its geography at all levels of the company.”