America today is markedly more diverse than at any other time in history. Sex, gender, identity, race, ethnicity - old stereotypes are fading. But barriers still exist - in society, politics, at school, in the office and the board room. Social, political and corporate barriers continue to reinforce endemic inequities.
Yet societies, organizations and firms that resist diversification make themselves vulnerable to competitors who are more nimble and adept, because of their diversity.
Corporate leaders are recognizing the dangers of having a homogenized workforce.
Civic leaders are recognizing that the complexity of a constantly changing society requires the see-around-the-corner vision of a diverse group of leaders.
The Hill will assemble stakeholders in this debate and test the proposition that without diversity, firms suffer, organizations stumble, associations of many sorts may flounder.
Elizabeth Marengo, Head of Diversity & Inclusion, Nestle USA
David Sutphen, Chief Strategy and Engagement Officer, 2U
Taryn Williams, Managing Director, Poverty to Prosperity Program,
Center for American Progress
Katherine Zaleski, Co-Founder & President, Power to Fly
In conversation with Julia Manchester, Staff Writer, The Hill