President of RFK Human Rights, Kerry Kennedy, will be featured on an upcoming panel discussion, “Rethinking corporate diversity efforts in a divided US” at FT Live’s Moral Money Summit on October 15, 2024. The panel will be moderated by Moral Money Editor Simon Mundy and will also feature the below panelists:

• Roy Swan, Director, Mission Investments, Ford Foundation
• Richard Buery, Jr., CEO, Robin Hood
• Jon Samuels, Partner & Co-Head, Vistria PRG

Panel Description

In 2020, the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police ignited a nationwide wave of protest, prompting a swift and public response from corporations in the form of renewed commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Companies pledged to increase the hiring of people of color, revised branding perceived as racist, and made investments in historically Black colleges, all during a period of public support for what was termed a “racial reckoning.” However, nearly four years later, there is a growing backlash against DEI initiatives, spreading rapidly among prestigious academic institutions, business leaders, and corporate organizations. This has sparked a contentious debate over the fairness and effectiveness of DEI strategies. Is it time to consider a new approach to driving diversity and inclusion?

• Where did DEI efforts fall short in maintaining their initial momentum?
• With DEI efforts under scrutiny, how can companies preserve their capacity to foster workplace diversity that is beneficial for business?
• What are the long-term consequences of dismantling DEI programs within organizations?
• What are the potential legal ramifications for companies that either continue or dismantle DEI initiatives?
• How can DEI efforts be advanced amidst current cultural and political divisions?

To watch the panel, register for FT Live’s Moral Money Summit.