No matter our ethnicity, gender identity, religion, or other qualities we may use to classify ourselves, one thing we all have in common is that we are consumers. And if you believe in diversity, inclusion, and equity for all people, you can actually use your role as a consumer to promote those values in your everyday life — without harming your budget.
By using coupons and other discount opportunities, and by shopping at diversity-promoting businesses and minority-owned businesses, you can direct your dollars to advance the cause in your community, nation, and world. Read on for more information about how you can help improve the lives of your neighbors who belong to a different culture or ethnicity.
If you’re living on a tight budget, it’s essential that you stay mindful of how you are using your money. Fortunately, there are lots of businesses that promote the values you are looking to push forward in society, and there are plenty of ways to save money on purchases. For example, if you need clothes, shoes, outerwear or homes but you need to find the best deals possible, shop at stores like Macy’s. Not only is it a diversity-promoting company, but you can always find Macy's coupons or discounts to help you save significantly on whatever you need.
Other than Macy’s, there are tons of companies out there working hard to celebrate diversity and inclusion.
For example, for all of your creative needs, including website, marketing, and communications solutions, working with Insercorp demonstrates your commitment to making your dollars count toward diversity, equity, and inclusion. Insercorp is minority-owned by Founder, CEO, and majority shareholder Tim Bradshaw, who is half-Korean. The company also proudly supports organizations like the Asian Business Association of Hampton Roads (ABAHR) and in the past has sponsored diversity focused events such as Asian Fest Hampton Roads, NETCON at India Fest, and the Franklin African American Festival.
As another example, if you need to purchase new clothes, shopping at Gap is a great option. The company has Equity and Belonging Network Groups, which were created by employees. The purpose of EBNGs is to embrace individuality and differences in the workplace and to make sure each workforce is an accurate representation of the communities they serve.
Visa is another great example. Along with promoting diversity and inclusion from the top down through quarterly committee meetings, all employees go through Diversity & Inclusion College, which is a segment of Visa University that trains employees and provides them with tools and resources to become more informed. Furthermore, the company has instituted Unconscious Bias Training and Inclusive Leadership Training.
These are just a couple of examples. To become a more conscious consumer, always research companies before you purchase from them.
Another way to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity is to choose businesses that are owned by minority groups. With a little research and time, you should be able to learn quite a bit about the small businesses in your community. What’s more, there are lots of minority-owned companies on a national and international level.
One example is FUBU, which was founded (and is still run) by Damon John, who started the $6 billion hip-hop apparel brand from a $40 budget. And there are companies like Zumba, started in the late 90s by Colombian choreographer Alberto Perez and now one of the leading fitness programs in the world. And Beauty Bakerie, run by Cashmere Nicole Carillo, is flourishing in the beauty product industry. And this is just the start of all the successful companies owned and operated by a minority group.
Keep in mind that the products you buy and where you buy them from matters. Research diversity-promoting and minority-owned businesses that you can support as a consumer. You might be surprised by how much of a difference your next purchase could make for those of a different culture or ethnicity in your community and beyond.
Disclaimer: The opinion of Insercorp Water Cooler Bloggers are of their own and do not reflect the official position(s) of Insercorp LTD
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