There is a significant disconnect between DE&I rhetoric and reality in the sector, according to a groundbreaking new report.
More than half (59 per cent) of eventprofs don’t feel their organisation values Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging and Accessibility (DEIBA) and 40 per cent doubt leadership sincerity, according to Driving Success Through Diversity: Data Report 2024, produced by Diversity Alliance in partnership with CVENT and M&IT.
The report provides an in-depth look at
the current state of DEIBA within event organisations, drawing upon surveys,
interviews, and industry data. The research identified four key pillars for
driving successful DEIBA initiatives: a commitment to workplace change, equal
opportunities, cultivating inclusion through belonging, and eliminating
barriers and biases to be more equitable.
Despite public statements promoting and supporting DEIBA, the report uncovers a significant disconnect between rhetoric and reality in the events industry. The report also highlights a lack of awareness and engagement with DEIBA initiatives, with only 35 per cent of respondents fully aware of their workplace's efforts.
Wake-up call
"This report serves as a wake-up call for our industry," said Gabrielle Austen Browne, founder of Diversity Alliance. "We must move beyond lip service and commit to meaningful, systemic change, rather than service level activities. By sharing best practices and actionable recommendations, we hope to empower organisations and individuals at all levels to drive success through diversity."
Gabrielle Austen Browne, founder of Diversity Alliance Photo Credit: image supplied"Surprisingly, the
events industry lags behind other sectors in this regard," said Anupa White, co-founder and director of Principal Global Events. "Given that event
professionals are known for their creativity, innovation, and boundary-pushing,
it’s surprising that the industry falls short. Leadership is often looked to
for setting the example and fostering inclusive environments. However, it's
frequently the stigmas within the workforce and middle management that are
harder to overcome."
Employee engagement and
retention are still heavily influenced by DEIBA efforts, even as these
initiatives face criticism, backlash and misrepresentation in workplaces,
media, and society at large.
The report offers
actionable recommendations for organisations at all stages of their DEIBA
journey. For those just starting out, developing and communicating a clear
DEIBA statement to all stakeholders is crucial. More experienced organisations
are advised to implement diverse hiring and promotion practices to build truly
inclusive workplaces. These steps, among others outlined in the report, provide
a roadmap for meaningful change in the events industry.
A more representative
industry will better serve diverse audiences, leading to more engaging events
and a commitment to DEIBA principles can enhance reputation, attract talent,
and drive sustainable growth.
Felicia Asiedu, marketing director at CVENT, said: "At CVENT, we recognise
that DEIBA is not just a moral imperative, but a business necessity. By
fostering inclusive environments and leveraging diverse perspectives, we can
unlock innovation, better serve our clients, and create a more equitable
industry for all."
Paul Harvey, editor of M&IT, added: "M&IT is proud to support this crucial research. As an
industry, we have a responsibility to hold ourselves accountable and take
concrete steps towards building a more diverse, inclusive future. This report
provides a roadmap for change, and we encourage all industry professionals to
engage with its findings and recommendations."
The full report is available
for download at Diversity
Alliance.
