My Commitment to Anti-Racism in Business

Julie Chenell, Pipe & Lime Media LLC

 

In light of the recent events of May and June 2020 – the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, and the resulting uprisings across the country – I’ve learned a lot about what it means to build a truly anti-racist business.

Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) have an immense amount of knowledge and expertise. We will be a better business community if we actively work to dismantle the systems that silence BIPOC voices, perspectives, and lived experiences.

I believe all members of the online entrepreneur community, and all members of our country for that matter, should be valued, respected, and protected equally. 

I do not believe in white supremacy, but I now understand that white power and privilege will reproduce itself in my business and life unless I’m engaged in ongoing anti-racism work.

Given this, here are some steps I’m taking in my business and online communities to create more equitable and encouraging environments for BIPOC folks:

  1. I am committed to investing a portion of my monthly budget to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color owned businesses. This includes but is not limited to software companies, contractors, employees, and educators.
  2. I am committed to engaging in ongoing quarterly anti-racist training for myself and my team in recognition that this is life-long work.
  3. I am committed to amplifying Black, Indigenous, and People of Color voices in my social media content, guest expert opportunities, and events.
  4. I am committed to donating a percentage of my profits on a quarterly basis to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color led organizations and movements.
  5. I am committed to cultivating safe online spaces for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. This means allowing conflict and disagreement when it arises, but not tolerating any racist language or behavior within the communities I lead and am a part of.

I am open to feedback and conversation about additional ideas and approaches. I’m sure as I learn more, my approaches to anti-racism will evolve and change. Thank you for your grace and contributions in this process.