In the past year, issues of racism and social injustice are finally receiving the kind of focus and attention necessary to move the collective conversation toward actionable solutions. We are noticing a greater spotlight on educating about and advocating for justice. There is stronger representation in public and government sectors serving as allies than ever before, and more intentional efforts incorporating social responsibility to the core organizational missions. For many, this has been a year of tragedies and challenges that impacted us in one form or another. We have learned that we are stronger when we work together to be that catalyst of change.

I am proud of the TEMPO Madison Board of Directors’ commitment to strengthening diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the organization. Progress to date include educating on DEI through monthly luncheons and the leadership series. In addition, our February networking event to see Forward Theatre’s THE NICETIES, included a post-show discussion, which offered a safe space for members to share their personal experiences and perspectives on racial discrimination. The NICETIES play, showcasing a debate between a Black college student and a white professor on the topics of race, history, and power in America, served as a catalyst for critical conversations, which are continuing among our members.

Looking forward, TEMPO Madison has developed the following DEI statement to reflect our commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone.

TEMPO Madison DEI Statement

TEMPO Madison is committed to embodying diversity, equity, and inclusion as an organization representing members from different backgrounds, businesses, industries, and professions. We live these values by embracing and celebrating individuals and ideas that represent and reflect all dimensions of diversity including race, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, sexual orientation, gender non-conforming traits, religion, military membership, veteran status, and ability. We respect and value diverse experiences and will strive to ensure that all voices are heard and given equal value. In addition to committing to these values within TEMPO Madison, we promote them outside the organization into the broader Madison community.

TEMPO Madison Board of Directors will exemplify and provide leadership on diversity, equity, and inclusion by committing to the following:

· Examine and address inequities within our policies, programs, and services and ensure transparency by communicating to appropriate constituents.

· Expand and commit to greater diversity within the Board of Directors, membership, as well as our partners and vendors.

· Develop and offer DEI professional development opportunities for the Board of Directors, especially those newly appointed in board leadership roles, members, and guests.

· Identify and advocate resources and programs for underrepresented members to ensure an equitable, inclusive, and rewarding experience.

Our DEI efforts do not stop with a statement. The next step is forming a DEI Committee with members that represent our growing diverse membership and who have expressed interest in strengthening the organizational efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion of TEMPO Madison. The DEI Committee will work closely with the Board of Directors to develop a vision, goals, and objectives, and to hold our organization accountable to meet the commitments set forth in the DEI Statement in all aspects (e.g., membership, speakers, events, vendors, partners, etc.). If you are interested in joining the DEI Committee, please email Erin Fabrizius at tempomadison@tempomadison.org by May 31, 2021.

As we proudly embrace our differences, it is our hope you will join us during the month of May in celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. To discover more about this amazing journey, check out: https://www.etonline.com/asian-american-and-pacific-islander-heritage-month-how-it-started-and-how-to-celebrate-164426

Respectfully,

Leslie M. Petty

President, TEMPO Madison