Conference Pre-Reads
PANEL: Ensuring No Woman of Color Is Left Behind
About the session:
For many women of color, experiences of race and gender in the workplace intersect with dimensions of difference. In this session, speakers will discuss their intersectional experiences at work and how they have managed them throughout their careers. Panelists will also propose strategies for ensuring that the needs of women of color with various intersectional experiences are prioritized in workplace opportunities.
Pre-read link:
Women of Color Undervalued Despite Focus on Workplace Fairness (Fair360)
Pre-read summary:
Despite the corporate focus on equity and inclusion, research shows an equitable workplace is still not a reality. Whether it’s the lack of representation at the top, unequal pay, a lack of active allies, frequent microaggressions or the remarkably high risk of burnout for women in the workplace, there’s no shortage of reasons why women of color feel underappreciated and ultimately left behind.
Fair360 Research Update
About the session:
In this session, Fair360 will share insights and actionable strategies on research focused on women of color in the workplace.
Pre-read link:
- Developing Best-in-Class Mentorship and Sponsorship Programs (Fair360)
- ERGs as a Career Development Engine for All (Fair360)
- Empowering Women of Color in the Workplace: Strategies for Success (Fair360)
Pre-read summary:
What can companies do to help women of color advance in the workplace? The answer starts with creating opportunities through initiatives like mentorship, sponsorship and employee resource groups (ERGs).
RESEARCH ROUNDUP: Cutting Edge Research on Women of Color in the Workplace
About the session:
In this session, leading academic researchers will share new research insights on women’s experiences at work and provide actionable takeaways on creating workplace environments that enable women of color to thrive.
Pre-read link:
- The State of Black Women in Corporate America (Lean In & McKinsey & Company)
- Women in the Workplace: Latinas (Lean In & McKinsey & Company)
Pre-read summary:
Research shows that women face many more challenges than men, but these challenges are not divided equally among women. Lack of representation, support, mentorship and discrimination are among the career barriers Black women and Latinas face in the workplace.
TED-Style Talk: Managing Stress and Burnout Through the Lens of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
About the session:
Research from organizations like the Urban Institute say women of color struggle to have their needs met in their daily lives, specifically at work. In this TED-Style talk, Dr. Ishmeal “Ish” Major, one of America’s top psychiatrists, will explore these tensions and discuss resources and tools women of color can employ to live healthier, more meaningful and sustainable lives. Q&A will follow the session.
Pre-read link:
- The Psychological Toll of Being the Only Woman of Color at Work (HBR)
- 2023 Top 50: Avoiding Burnout – Instilling Sustainability in Diversity Leaders and Their Work (Fair360)
Pre-read summary:
Facing racial bias and discrimination at work and advocating for workplace fairness can affect mental health. Stress and burnout highlight the importance of women of color and inclusion leaders caring for themselves while helping others.
PANEL: Cultivating a Network of Support to Build Your Career
About the session:
Cultivating a network of peers, mentors, sponsors and allies is crucial to help women of color advance their careers. In this session, we will examine how a strong network can open them to a broader range of opportunities, offer mentorship and guidance, help them overcome biases and stereotypes, build confidence and more.
Pre-read link:
- Why Sponsorship is Important for Women of Color (Fair360)
- 2023 Top 50: Moments of Reflection: Sisterhood and the Importance of Support Systems for Women of Color (Fair360)
- Don’t Just Mentor Women and People of Color: Sponsor Them (HBR)
- Women of Color in the United States (Catalyst)
Pre-read summary:
Women of color are more likely to be over-mentored and under-sponsored, according to a report from the Harvard Business Review. Effective sponsorship is a critical action that can open doors for them to succeed. Women of color need to be active agents in building their careers and cultivate a network of support who can partner with them in their success.
FIRESIDE CHAT With Joy Fitzgerald
About the session:
In this fireside chat, Carolynn Johnson, CEO of Fair360 will speak with Joy Fitzgerald, Senior Vice President, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer of UnitedHealth Group. The corporate leader, executive coach and best-selling author’s new book: Finding Authentic Rhythm: How to Win on Your Terms in Corporate America, offers a wealth of information for women to thrive in their careers.
Pre-read link:
Pre-read summary:
Feeling seen, heard and acknowledged at work is necessary. As colleagues, HR leaders and inclusion leaders, we must check in with one another and create safe spaces to speak our authentic truths.
Panel: Recruiting and Retaining Women of Color: Insights From Top Companies
About the session:
Recruiting and retaining women of color requires a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of the workplace environment and company culture. By adopting this strategy, organizations can create an inclusive and supportive environment for women of color.
In this session, some notable companies for Talent Acquisition for Women of Color will share insights into their recruitment and retention strategies.
Pre-read link:
- Beyond Inclusion: What Sets Companies Apart in Attracting Women of Color (Fair360)
- Colorism: A Barrier to Equity and Inclusion (Fair360)
- Why Pay Transparency Laws Are Crucial for Women of Color (Fair360)
Pre-read summary:
Colorism, lack of opportunities and pay inequality are barriers holding women of color back in the workplace. Companies can support them by demonstrating leadership accountability, implementing pay equity initiatives and focusing on learning and development.
Panel: Building Truly Inclusive Cultures by Addressing Systemic Structural Barriers for All
About the session:
To foster an equitable environment, supporting women of color and building inclusive cultures that cater to the needs of all stakeholders are essential challenges that leaders need to address. In this session, speakers will share insights on navigating this tension in their organizations, including the policies and programs they have developed to ensure they create a rising tide that lifts all – not just a select few.
Pre-read link:
Pre-read summary:
As analysis from Fair360 has shown, tech layoffs have disproportionately impacted women and people of color. When conducting layoffs, companies should follow several steps, including effective planning and reducing headcount in a dignified manner.
