Anna Beyerle Creative's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
Like many other business owners, I've used this past week of unrest to focus on what my organization is doing to amplify Black voices and undo the systemic racism in the United States.
And I've realized I'm not doing enough.
As an organization built around elevating the voices of purpose-driven business owners, Anna Beyerle Creative is firmly rooted in the idea that all stories need to be told. The events surrounding the murder of George Floyd have only made this idea more obvious. As a business owner, I have always believed strongly in DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) efforts in all businesses, and have done my best to implement these elements into my work.
It’s become increasingly obvious that trying and saying are not enough. Action needs to be made to further the causes of justice and equity in the United States and the world. Equality is not enough. This country needs to be made equitable, and I want to begin taking action, however small those actions may be.
Put money in line with my values. I will be donating 5% of Anna Beyerle Creative’s yearly profits to a group or groups working toward justice and reparations for BIPOC (Black, Indiginous, and People of Color). Long-term, I plan to support multiple BIPOC-focused organizations, though immediate donations will benefit organizations working for justice for Black folks.
Hire diversely. For future hires within Anna Beyerle Creative, I will focus on hiring diversely, removing biases, and examining potential biased requirements. Free labor (including skills tests) has never been a part of my business model, and never will be.
Work toward the creation of scholarship funds. As this company grows, it’s my goal to create courses and programs for individuals launching businesses. As these courses and programs launch, I aim to create scholarship funds to benefit BIPOC individuals who would otherwise not be able to afford courses or programs to evolve their business.
Work with clients to further the mission of BIPOC and support progressive causes. I have been exposed to DEI work and other progressive causes through my clients. For my own personal development and to lift up these organizations, I will continue to focus on using my work to benefit organizations of progressive, purpose-driven causes.
Remain open to learning. As a privileged, cisgender white woman, I am aware that I will never firsthand understand the agressions, racism, and prejudice experienced by BIPOC and other minority groups. However, I vow to continually learn, admit when I make mistakes, and hold myself accountable to continue evolving.
Publicly support human rights causes. It’s no longer acceptable for organizations to remain silent on issues of human rights. I will use this platform to champion
I want to put my values into practice and hold myself accountable, and hope you will join me. For information on DEI work, these links are a great place to start:
https://www.educause.edu/about/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/resources
If you have any feedback or questions, please let me know. I'm committed to doing better.
Sincerely,
Anna Beyerle
CEO & Creative Director, Anna Beyerle Creative