By: Ragine Williams, M.S., SHRM-CP
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Let’s be honest, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been taking some hits lately. From legislative pushback to social media backlash, it can feel like the tide is turning against the work many of us have been building for years. But for HR professionals, especially here in Philadelphia, a city rooted in revolution and resilience, this isn’t the time to retreat. It’s the time to evolve. Say it in full: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, not just DEI. Because when we say the words, we remember the purpose.
Here’s how we can stay grounded and keep pushing forward in a way that’s impactful, strategic, and real.
Align Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Your Business Strategy (Not Just Your Values)
It’s not enough to have a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion statement on your website. Real impact comes when Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is baked into your company’s core goals—from talent development to customer experience. That alignment not only drives results but also protects Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from becoming a “nice-to-have” when times get tough.
Pro tip: Try linking Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion goals to KPIs that already matter to leadership, like employee retention, innovation, or engagement scores.
Use Data to Tell Your Story (and Drive Change)
Metrics matter. You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Use demographic data, pulse surveys, and exit interviews to paint a clear picture of your workforce—and to track where change is happening (or not).
Tool to try: Consider a DEI Dashboard — a simple way to turn data into insight and action.
Prepare Your People for Tough Conversations
In a polarized world, it’s risky to avoid sensitive topics, but it’s equally risky to jump in without a plan. Train your managers and employees to engage with empathy and respect. Create spaces where people can learn, challenge ideas, and grow, without fear.
Local recommendation: Check out the Philly SHRM LiftLab, a local talent accelerator that frequently offers Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and inclusive leadership programming tailored for Philly professionals.
Stay Ahead of DEI Trends
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is always evolving, so your approach should, too. Don’t rely on one-time trainings or last year’s playbook. Read widely, attend conferences, and keep up with legal changes and emerging best practices.
Try this: Follow the Philly SHRM “HR Fresh Take” podcast, which features various thought leaders whose insights include bridging HR, strategy, and inclusion.
Connect With Philly’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ecosystem
One of the best things about our region? The incredible Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion community. Collaborate with local nonprofits, chambers, and business coalitions that are advancing this work across industries.
Get involved:
- Philly SHRM: fill out the volunteer application and, at the bottom, express an interest in the DEI Committee
- The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia’s Diverse Procurement Collaborative
- Philadelphia Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Own the Narrative
There’s been a lot of noise lately, but let’s not forget— Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is about making work better for everyone. It’s about access, fairness, and tapping into the full potential of your workforce. Don’t let fear water down your messaging. Speak confidently, back it up with results, and remind your teams why this work matters.
Final Thoughts
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion isn’t a trend. It’s a commitment—and the HR community here in Philly is more than equipped to lead it. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into the work, remember that progress doesn’t always look like a straight line, but every step forward counts.
About the Author
Proudly known as the ultimate Diversity geek and disruptor, Ragine Williamsis deeply passionate about revolutionizing workplace dynamics by embedding fresh perspectives of diversity and inclusion. She is a graduate of La Salle University with a Master’s Degree in Human Capital Development. She is driven by the mission of reinstating the human element in Human Resources, ensuring each employee feels genuinely valued and appreciated.
Currently, Ragine serves as the Leader of DEI Recruiting, Reporting, and Outreach as part of the Workforce Development Team at SEI. In this role, she is resolutely committed to fostering an environment of equality and safety for all employees while expanding her impact. Continuously striving for innovation, she endeavors to infuse diversity, equity, and inclusion into every facet of her work. She is also Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at the Society for Human Resource Management Philadelphia Chapter, further amplifying her commitment to driving positive change. And Ragine is a content contributor to Philly SHRM’s Thought Leadership Team.
Editor: Dennis Paris
Becoming a Philly SHRM Thought Leader
We are always looking for inspiring minds! If you are interested in learning more about how to become a Philly SHRM Thought Leader, offering your professional views about this or any Thought Leader article, or want to chat about contributing content on a hot or innovative HR-related topic, please reach out to Dennis Paris and Evelyn Reed, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, Co-VPs of Thought Leadership at: thoughtleader@phillyshrm.org
