From the CEO: Reflections on

Reflections on a New (And Old) Normal

I WRITE MY MAGAZINE

column many weeks before you see them in print. This column was initially called “Reflections on a new normal” and it dealt with the way the world and business has changed in the last six months. While the title still applies, just like the conversation in America in the last few weeks, the subject matter has changed dramatically. It is clear that change is in order, and it is coming to the landscape industry.

Summarizing what has happened over the past several weeks can take us in many directions. I could tell you about an NALP member couple who stepped forward to take the lead on diversity action in the industry. I could tell you about a group of Hispanic leaders who are poised to take significant steps forward to bring more inclusiveness by welcoming the Hispanic landscape community. And I could tell you about the African American leaders in our industry who have been thoughtful and patient, ensuring that we, as a community, make impactful and needed changes. As for me, I will share some things that I’ve taken away from the past several weeks that I’ll carry forever.

One of the most transformative things that has happened since the awful loss of George Floyd’s life is that there have been many stories told about the daily struggles faced by African Americans. And, hearing those stories has

helped make it clear to members of the NALP Board of Directors that being against racism isn’t enough. We have to take definitive action against racism to make a difference.

In June, NALP hosted a virtual Diversity Forum, attended by more than 35 people from all walks of life but bound together by one thing…an industry we all care about and hope to make better. The Forum was led by Maurice Dowell, a well-respected, 30-plus-year volunteer of this association. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Maurice again for hosting the event and allowing so many voices to be heard. The group shared great insights, many of which will lead to changes in association programming and offerings that will be rolled out over the coming weeks and months. But most importantly, the Forum started a discussion, one that was long overdue.

So, what comes next? That is an excellent question and one I get asked frequently these days. We want to build on the momentum that the Forum created and look for ways to make NALP and the entire industry more attractive and welcoming to women, and the African American, Hispanic, and LGBTQ communities.

How will we begin to do that? We will open up a dialogue so all NALP members can participate; we will develop diversity and inclusion education and training sessions; create new tools and resources; and actively recruit more diverse volunteers to join NALP leadership – serving on our committees, councils, and on the board of directors.

These changes are long overdue, so they will take a little time to be fully realized, but lasting change doesn’t happen overnight. We encourage all members to get involved in shaping the future of the association and the industry. To learn more, visit our webpage www.landscapeprofessionals.org/ LP/Diversity__Inclusion.aspx.

Reflecting on what I had written before Memorial Day, much of it still applies. I have only one thing to add. We need to be better listeners and better actors. And, with that, I leave you with my closing thoughts from nearly a month ago…

So here we are, approaching the crossroads of the new normal. What will that look like for you and your company? What changes will you make? What things will stay the same? As you answer those questions, please know that your association is asking the same questions of itself. But, also know, we plan to have some of those answers for you by the time I write my next column.

Stay safe, stay healthy, keep listening, and let’s make some change! change!

Britt Wood, CEO Britt Wood CEO