Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) have become essential principles in today’s workplaces and the labor movement, especially in light of ongoing global challenges and systemic injustices. As events around the world continue to highlight inequality and discrimination, prioritizing DE&I is not merely about compliance—it’s about advancing human and civil rights, and fostering spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered.
At CMS Energy, where I work, embedding DE&I into every aspect of our operations is crucial to cultivating a culture of belonging and ensuring that all stakeholders benefit. This commitment is championed by a team I am proud to co-chair — DE&I Champions — a dedicated group of employees deeply connected to the work and committed to making sure every individual feels valued, heard, and included. For us, DE&I is synonymous with belonging, and our investment in every employee reinforces this core belief.
In the workplace, embracing DE&I drives innovation and growth. Diverse teams bring a range of perspectives that enhance creativity and problem-solving. Equity ensures all employees have access to opportunities and resources, helping to dismantle barriers that have historically excluded marginalized communities. Inclusion fosters an environment where everyone feels they belong and can contribute fully without fear of bias or discrimination. Together, these principles help build workplaces that attract and retain top talent, ensure fair treatment, and support long-term organizational success.
In the labor movement, DE&I is equally vital. Unions have long championed workers’ rights, and incorporating DE&I into that advocacy strengthens their impact. By embracing diversity, unions represent all workers — including those from underrepresented racial, gender, and socioeconomic groups. Equity fuels the fight for fair wages, healthcare access, and safe working conditions for all, regardless of background. Inclusion empowers unions to unite workers across different communities, building solidarity and driving meaningful, collective change.
DE&I also plays a critical role in advancing human and civil rights more broadly. It confronts systemic inequities, combats discrimination, and affirms the dignity of every individual. In a time when social movements and crises are exposing deep global disparities, organizations and unions have both an opportunity — and a responsibility — to lead the way toward a more just and inclusive future.
DE&I is not a trend. It is the foundation upon which fair and equitable societies are built. By embedding these values into our work, we can help create lasting, meaningful progress for workers and communities alike.