Open Letter to Industry on Anti-Racism Efforts
CALL TO ACTION…
Copy and edit the letter below, then send to your HR team, Directors, General Managers, VP’s and CEOs. Industry change starts with you.
Date
Dear _________,
I'm writing in regards to racism in the hospitality industry. I'd like to express my concern that our company has not demonstrated concrete actions towards anti-racism efforts. Expressing support on social media is not enough. What commitments are being made within our organization?
Now is the time for open discussion and showing solidarity to our staff. We need to listen, learn and amplify our efforts throughout our company.
I'd love to see what our organization can do to make anti-racism efforts a priority. I've listed a few suggestions on how we as an organization can start this process in a positive way:
HR or Management should reach out and check in on BIPOC employees, offer support and explain a plan to move forward.
Form a discussion group made up of a diverse mix of individuals from various departments to review policies and identify areas where we can make a change.
Assess recruitment and promotion strategies to ensure representation at all levels of the organization.
Mandate anti-racism and anti-bias training for all employees.
Acknowledge the impact that racism has on your BIPOC employees’ mental health.
Send leaders to conferences/webinars focused on anti-racism and anti-oppression.
Support organizations already doing the work of anti-racism training. Invite them and pay them equitable wages for their knowledge.
Create a company culture where racism is not tolerated to the same degree as theft, dishonesty, sexual harassment, etc.
Do not wait for your racialized employees to make a push for equity. Take the first step and check in with them to see if they feel included in your actions.
Actively promote the hiring of BIPOC employees at all levels.
These steps are important and will be a very valuable and positive change to our organization. I look forward to your response.
Kind regards,