Focus on DEI lives up to Rotary's commitment to the Four-Way Test

 

Our Rotary International President Jennifer Jones is focused on four presidential initiatives that reimagine Rotary now and well into the future. Chief among those is advancing our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

 

Chief among those is advancing our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as led by the Rotary DEI task force charged with shaping a comprehensive action plan with achievable, measurable, and meaningful outcomes for Rotary. 

 

So why is DEI so important now and receiving such a high level of attention both from enlightened professional and civic organizations like ours around the world? According to the Pew Research Center, “Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is more important than ever for organizations as they move to ensure members of all backgrounds feel valued for who they are and what they bring to the organization.

 

In addition, per the U.S. Census Bureau, Blacks, Asians, Hispanics, and other racial minorities will make up a majority of the U.S. population by the year 2050.

 

Recognizing this, I believe Rotary’s timely and forward-looking initiative is about creating a membership that reflects the world we will live in if we are to remain relevant and effective. In my view, it’s not a nicety but a necessity. 

 

Our international website states with regard to DEI, “Rotary can make a measurable difference (only) while introducing Rotary to new audiences and potential partners and influencers. We recognize that being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization will enhance the experience that members have in Rotary, allow us to carry out more meaningful and effective service efforts, and create open, welcoming environments that appeal to people who want to connect with us.”