ISBA Releases DEI Assessment
Consistent with the ISBA’s commitment to this important issue, I’m pleased to announce the release of the ISBA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Assessment. The release of this DEI Assessment marks the conclusion of the first phase of a comprehensive review of the Association’s DEI efforts. The assessment was conducted by our nationally recognized consultants, Richard D. Harvey, Ph.D. of Saint Louis University and Professor Kimberly Norwood of Washington University in St. Louis Law School, who also prepared the Assessment Report linked to above.
As part of conducting the assessment, our consultants: (1) reviewed existing DEI-related documents within the Association; (2) conducted a reanalysis of existing ISBA DEI survey data; (3) independently surveyed a consultant-selected sample of ISBA leadership and minority members; and (4) independently interviewed a consultant-selected sample of ISBA leadership and minority members. The DEI Assessment was first presented to the ISBA membership on May 23 and a video of that presentation is available. Working to make the ISBA even more diverse and inclusive was a priority for my presidential year and this project has been given my personal attention.
With the release of this DEI Assessment, we will now move on to the next phase of this important project. First, we will be working with our highly qualified consultants to create a transparent and inclusive process for implementing a formal DEI strategy. In addition, a special committee will be appointed to assist leadership in developing the strategy for the ISBA. As this important project moves forward, we will be regularly updating the membership on its progress.
While my time as your ISBA President will draw to a close next week, I will remain integrally involved in this long-term project and leadership is committed to continuing this important work. I hope that you will all take the time to read through this DEI Assessment and reflect on what each of us can do to contribute to making the ISBA as diverse, open, welcoming, equitable, and inclusive as possible.
Anna P. Krolikowska, ISBA President
Member Comments (3)
Congratulations on your term as president you did a wonderful job!
Thanks for all your great work as President! The ISBA was fortunate to have you as President at this difficult time. Great Job!
However much the ISBA paid for this consultation was too much. The DEI industry is a racket. This report contains mostly empty rhetoric based almost exclusively on subjective survey responses, many of which simply complain that the ISBA has too many old white men. This quote is illuminating: "A common concern was to avoid tokenism, window dressing, and making those who are marginalized responsible for finding the solutions.” In other words, "marginalized" members want to avoid tokenism but, paradoxically, do not want to be asked to participate in problem-solving.
KJN Equity Consultants explicitly urges ISBA to hire a DEI industry insider as a DEI czar. If you think I am exaggerating, watch the presentation linked above and skip to Mr. Harvey's remarks at the 24-minute mark. I am certain KJN and others will try to sell more DEI "education" in the future. Members would be wise to tell ISBA leadership not waste more of the organization's money.