The Death of DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion)

Thursday, September 26th

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Dutch's Daughter (IN PERSON ONLY)

Program Description

DEI is under attack across various sectors. Are these attacks justified, or do they stem from a fundamental misunderstanding of DEI's purpose in the workplace? There is evidence to support both scenarios, but certain facts warrant greater attention from the C-Suite and HR Leaders. This session explores the current state of DEI and where it's going in the near future.

Speaker Bio

Ciera Parks has over 15 years of experience focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, having worked in higher education, manufacturing, non-profit, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce and technology industries. Ciera is an HR Strategic Consultant and DEI Trainer, specializing in talent and organizational development. 

Ciera supports her clients by offering customized service plans for introducing or enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts within an organization. Her DEI wheelhouse includes training, focus groups, coaching, employee resource group development, impactful programming, advocacy conversations and creating policies and practices that embody equity and inclusiveness. Working within organizational structures, she helps drive change initiatives that are progressive, yet sustainable. Her expertise in building organizations and developing people, delivers measurable results. Ciera helps organizations discover how they can maximize their operation, by developing the talent they have. 

Ciera partners with several organizations to increase dialogue around diversity, equity and inclusion. Some of her notable training clients include:

• Microsoft

• The Carter Center

• Maryland Public Television

• General Dynamics

• The US Pentagon. 

She's currently the Director of the Diversity & Inclusion Committee for the Chesapeake Human Resources Association, Board Chair for Progressive Steps Incorporated and volunteers with the Greater Baltimore Urban League, helping youth chart a path to college through training and mentorship. 

Ciera’s commitment to inclusive environments has gotten her elected to the board of two Amazon affinity groups: the Black Employee Network (BEN), as Community Involvement Director for her commitment to community outreach, and Glamazon (LGBTQ Affinity Group), as Professional Development Chair for her commitment to skill and leadership development for all diverse populations.

Thank you to our meeting sponsor!