BEVERAGE INDUSTRY INCLUSION

Just a few years ago , companies large and small were embracing the concept of DEI — diversity , equity and inclusion — as efforts to better promote the fair treatment and full participation of all people . In particular , DEI aimed to level the playing field for those who have historically been underrepresented or subject to discrimination on the basis of identity or disability .

Today , however , many businesses are quietly ( and not so quietly ) disbanding their DEI programs . In fact , DEI has become a dirty word : Calling someone a “ DEI hire ” is now an insult , particularly in some political circles .

This is discouraging , since it ’ s not exactly as if the need for DEI programs just evaporated . We can only hope that just as the “ Me too ” movement of recent years helped raise awareness about sexual harassment and sexual abuse of women in the workplace , perhaps the recent focus on DEI has encouraged companies to examine some of their practices .

It would be a mistake to ignore or abandon the principles of DEI , because diversity is just good business Most people believe in social and economic progress , and with the country ’ s increasingly diverse population , consumers want to see themselves in the products or services that they engage with .

As Mara Smith , founder of Inspiro Tequila , says in the Women in Beverage feature , having diverse viewpoints is necessary for innovation . Kathie Durbin , director of Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services in Gaithersburg , MD , agrees , noting that DEI policies help maintain momentum and foster inclusivity .

More words of wisdom from another featured woman in beverage : Katherine “ Kat ” Wojcik , director of beverage programs and partnerships for IHG Hotels & Resorts , says that to be successful in this dynamic industry , you have to embrace the change .

We couldn ’ t agree more .

Melissa Dowling

How beverage brands focused on diversity and inclusion often prioritize giving back to the cultures they represent . By Kyle Swartz

Six female leaders in the beverage alcohol industry weigh in on how they got their start , their inspirations and role models , and the benefits of having women at the table making decisions . By Melissa Dowling

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