Benefits brokers: Let's talk about the elephant in the room
Why, after years of saying the right things and vowing to do better, does our industry still look so much like it always has?
So far, 2020 has been an eye opening year in a number of ways. And let’s face it, most of them haven’t been good. Most recently, the murder of George Floyd has drawn national attention to the systemic racism and inequality faced by Black Americans and other people of color in the United States.
Unfortunately, our own industry provides a microcosm of some of the larger issues facing our country. As we’ve discussed in this magazine many times before, in an environment and community where so much is going right, a notable lack of diversity and inclusion continues to hold the benefits world back in a number of ways.
This month, we focus on the elephant in the room: Why, after years of saying the right things and vowing to do better, does our industry still look so much like it always has?
Related: Building diversity and inclusion: A modern guide
In our cover story (page 12), we examine this lack of progress, the many challenges and harmful behaviors faced by people of color in our industry; the ongoing exclusion of so many who are looking for an opportunity to contribute their skills and knowledge; and the many ways this exclusion and lack of progress continues to keep our industry from achieving more.
But what, exactly, will it take to truly make a difference? This issue offers plenty of advice and strategies for those who want to be part of the change. As Felipe Barganier notes, “It needs to become an action item for your firm and something you truly believe in. And you need to be methodical about how you’re doing it.”
In “Raise your hand,” (page 18) Kevin Trokey challenges himself, and others in the industry, to use their privilege to help make a difference. “We cannot stand silent and allow this moment to simply be one more that passes. Nor is it enough to use our voices only until the initial outrage subsides. We must use this moment as a catalyst for change.”
Meanwhile, this month’s Inside Wellness section offers 10 ways you can support Black colleagues and improve well-being. And in Action Reaction, benefits professionals from a variety of backgrounds offer their own perspectives and share ways in which they’re working to do better within their own businesses and communities.
After years of lip service and good intentions, the time has come for something better. As Bridget Hurd says in our cover story. “We have to step out of that box of who we know and be intentional and deliberate.”
Addressing this woeful lack of diversity, inclusion and equity won’t be fast or easy. But if we’re truly focused on helping people and doing good, then change is long overdue.
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