LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT AND CEO

TITLE A WORD FROM THE AZ HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT & CEO, MÓNICA VILLALOBOS…

On behalf of the AZ Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC), I would like to share our gratitude for the thorough work of Dr. Kimberly Underwood and Dr. Mike Slaven in co-authoring the Diversity and Inclusion Best Practices White Paper. For taking those words – diversity and inclusion – and giving them actionable meaning in the context of organizational culture. This publication has been in the works, if only conceptually, for several years. The crisis of social conscience over the last 18 months have provided more than enough motivation to bring the white paper to fruition. Diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging are not just words to be used without purpose and meaning. These are ACTIONS that must be woven into the DNA of all successful organizations.

Our goal is to provide a guide to achieve just that – a deliberate effort to build strong solidarity from the insecurity of our differences. Many Arizona companies participated in this study to help us understand the HOW and shared best practices. We applaud those businesses for their willingness to be vanguards in their respective industries and a bellwether for those that have not yet started to do so. We encourage a better understanding of the shifted demographics in our state and proceed with an introspective look into hiring practices, supplier diversity and employee resource groups to reflect the customer base.

At the AZHCC, we believe that we are stronger together and everything we do is in that spirit. We look forward to working with you!

Monica S. Villalobos

President & CEO Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce