In the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement, many organizations are reviewing their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. Over the next few months, I will be discussing best practices for defining, navigating, and implementing a successful DEI process. I will discuss the various meanings of DEI, why DEI efforts are important as a statement about your organization, and how DEI efforts impact your future growth.

But before we even begin to discuss why DEI is so important, let us start with what it actually means.