Holidays like Juneteenth (June 19) mark a great reason for companies to pause and reflect on how they can make meaningful progress toward equity.

Let’s be clear: Companies and individuals shouldn’t wait until a federal holiday — and perhaps day off — to do this kind of reflection. Black communities have been celebrating Emancipation Day, when the news of freedom for enslaved people reached Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, for over a century.

As leaders, you should challenge yourself to think of how significant days like Juneteenth can serve as a catalyst for asking deep questions about how your organization is taking meaningful steps toward equity in the workplace. Here are some questions to reflect on as company leaders:

  • How is your company prioritizing DEI initiatives that amplify the voices and experiences of diverse employees?
  • What equitable hiring practices do you have in place?
  • What mentorship and career advancement opportunities are available for people of all backgrounds?
  • Do you have transparent career advancement policies with measurable progression criteria that support fair and unbiased employee opportunities?
  • How are you celebrating the achievements of your leaders?

What other questions around equity are you asking yourselves — or your leaders — during Juneteenth and beyond? And how are you celebrating Juneteenth? Send me a note at malbiges@napco.com with your answers to these questions.