If you’re a member of Women in Retail Leadership Circle (WIRLC) and work in the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) space, I urge you to join our DEI committee. Started earlier this year with our sister brand, Women Leading Travel & Hospitality, the committee meets virtually every month and is designed to provide a safe space for members who work in the field of DEI.

In the monthly meetings, attendees are honest and vulnerable with one another. They share progress around their goals of creating diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, as well as discuss challenges they’re up against every day. Here’s just a sampling of topics covered in these important discussions over the last few months:

  • how members improved their DEI efforts across suppliers and vendors along with tips for other members to improve those relationships as well;
  • how members measure the impact and success of their DEI programs;
  • what it really means to be an ally;
  • what to do when getting pushback on DEI initiatives; and
  • best practices for creating marketing programs targeted to diverse consumers.

Members use these meetings to exchange ideas and best practices on issues that seek to enhance DEI in all aspects of the workplace. Just like our member peer group calls, the meetings aim to provide a space where members can be honest and vulnerable with women who have similar goals and challenges.

If you’re a WIRLC member or know someone in the retail, travel or hospitality industries who might be interested in joining our DEI committee, please reach out to our senior editor, Marie Albiges (malbiges@napco.com) with your full name, title, company, contact information, and a brief description of your DEI responsibilities within your organization. We look forward to hearing from you!