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Redefining Inclusion: The Programming Mistake Even the Best ERGs Make

Redefining Inclusion: The Programming Mistake Even the Best ERGs Make

To this day, I still have to check myself on this

Maceo Owens
November 16, 2024

Hey Champs!

Let me say this loud and clear: if your ERG is struggling with engagement, there’s a simple fix you might be overlooking—be more inclusive with your programming. 🛠️

Here’s what I mean:

When we create events, resources, and initiatives for our ERGs, we often unintentionally center the majority identity within the group. How ironic is that? In the corporate workplace, the majority—meaning those who aren’t part of underrepresented groups—already receives the bulk of attention and programming. Why repeat that same dynamic in spaces specifically designed to support underrepresented communities? 🤔

Let’s talk about it.

🚨Black ≠ Only African American
🚨Women ≠ Only White Women
🚨 Asian ≠ Only East Asian
🚨 LGBTQ ≠ Only Gay (often White) Men

This shift might feel uncomfortable because it forces us to confront our own biases and blind spots. It’s human nature to default to what’s familiar or to center the narratives of the majority without realizing it. But here’s the thing: true inclusion means stepping outside of that comfort zone. It requires us to ask hard questions about who we’re unintentionally leaving out and why. Recognizing that our well-intentioned efforts might still exclude parts of the community isn’t easy—but it’s necessary.

As we step into 2025 planning, let’s be intentional about creating opportunities to spotlight the subgroups within our ERGs. This isn’t just a checkbox—it’s how we ensure everyone feels truly seen and valued. By designing programming that highlights the diversity within our communities, we can build authentic connections and foster unity across the entire group. When every member feels represented, we move closer to creating the inclusive, thriving ERG communities we all aspire to support.

Mini hack delivered. 🎤 Let’s go make it happen! 💪🏿

✌🏿 Until next time,

The ERG Homegirl

NEW Resource Alert

We know that showcasing your ERG’s impact can be challenging, especially when it’s time for performance reviews. That’s why we’re excited to bring you our new ERG Performance Review Statements Template! 🎉 This free resource is designed to help ERG leaders and program managers effectively highlight their achievements, organize key metrics, and align their contributions with company goals—all in a way that’s easy to share and understand.

This is currently only available as a Google Doc, but stay tuned—Word and PDF versions will be available by mid-November! 💼

Graphic titled ‘ERG Performance Review Statements Template’ with a header reading ‘FREE RESOURCE’ and a notepad icon in the top left corner. The main text says, ‘Showcase your ERG’s value with our ERG Performance Review Statements Template, a free resource crafted to help you clearly document, measure, and communicate your ERG’s achievements and impact in performance reviews.’ The handle ‘@THEERGMOVEMENT’ appears at the bottom. The background is a grid pattern with a subtle yellow border around the graphic.

📢 Upcoming ERG Champs Masterclass: Protect Your ERG—Legal Risks of Excluding Allies

If you’re concerned about the future of your ERG program, this is a session you can’t miss. It’s more important than ever to ensure your ERG is legally sound—and, spoiler alert, many ERGs currently aren’t.

In this 60-minute Linkedin Live masterclass, we’ll dive into why ally inclusion is essential for protecting your ERG from legal risks. With the potential for increased visibility and scrutiny around ERGs, making sure your program is compliant is crucial for its longevity. You’ll hear directly from experienced lawyers on what it means to have a legally compliant ERG, why excluding allies can be dangerous, and I’ll share actionable steps for opening up your channels without sacrificing psychological safety for identifying members.

This session is designed specifically for ERG leaders, so feel free to invite a fellow leader who might benefit from this insight. It’s time to make your ERG safe, inclusive, and built to last—don’t wait until it’s too late.