I&CO does not tolerate hate or violence of any kind. We continue our commitment to creating antiracist work and an antiracist workplace represented through our Maxim, “Be Just. Do Right.” We stand in solidarity with the Asian and Pacific Islander community.
Our approach has been to be proactive in operating through a social justice lens. However, when moments of hate arise we need to be adaptive in doing the research, voicing our opinion, and seeking out ways to support.
The I&CO Equity and Justice Plan was launched in 2020 in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, and we actively work on these commitments today. These efforts underscored the need for unity. Stop Asian Hate is a call for solidarity among and for Asians in the collective struggle for racial equity. Nearly half of I&CO is made up of Asian heritage. These are our employees, friends, family, and leaders.
“Do the right thing by whoever crosses your path. Those coincidental people are your people.”
― Maxine Hong Kingston
How can we bring light to the challenges of the Asian community at work?
An ally will mostly engage in activism by standing with an individual or group in a marginalized community. An accomplice will focus more on dismantling the structures that oppress that individual or group.
Say Something
1. Calling It What It Is
This was a racist attack. Naming and proper acknowledgment of injustice is a first step we are taking towards change. For those interested in training their voice, Hollaback! is offering free bystander intervention training.
2. Making Space
We give visibility and awareness of what’s happening in the world within the workplace. After the murder of eight people, six of whom were Asian women, a company-wide meeting was called to process and discuss. We believe it’s important to be intentional in how to create a space where this conversation is welcome, appreciated, and supported.
3. Creating a Virtual Forum
Beyond the increase in pandemic-related racism, this isn’t a new narrative. Discrimination doesn’t need to be blatant to be felt — subtle prejudice also exists. To continue the conversation we have set up a space on Slack to amplify voices, share events, resources, and articles.
Do Something
1. Working Through the Lens of Social Justice
We recognize that the work we do shapes cultures at all levels, thus our options of how we see the world. To act as an accomplice, we have engaged with several DEI experts to evaluate our work and learn together.
2. Donating & Fundraising
Even small charitable donations make a big impact. Here are some organizations focusing on the national and local levels:
- Support the victims of the shooting
- Support the Asian American Georgia community
- Donate to a breadth of programs supporting the AAPI community
Another way to give is by donating your time. Our own Associate Product Designer, Kae Linh Ngo, founded MŨ, where 50% of the proceeds from her hand-made hats go towards an AAPI charity (her last collection went on to support Heart of Dinner).
3. Workplace Training
Our social justice journey started in 2020, and every day it becomes more critical. At its core, our training is focused on building a strong culture that supports our employees. The work and training for us will always be ongoing.
“If we want to see change in our lives, we have to change things ourselves.”
— Grace Lee Boggs
