Rochester has struggled with issues of racial and social injustice and inequity for many decades. Greater Rochester Chamber, as a voice and representative for the business community, has a role to play in ensuring safety, prosperity, and a more level playing field for all of our citizens.
Rochester is the home of Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and so many other voices of progress and change. We must follow in their footsteps to address the broken systems and choices that have led us to where we are today. We must forge a new normal that uplifts all of our citizens and the Greater Rochester region as a whole.
Our DEI Statement
Greater Rochester is a diverse community, and that diversity is our strength.
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is committed to creating an economy that is built on the ingenuity, intelligence, and involvement of all of its residents – not just some.
In order to reach our maximum potential, we must ensure that every person in our community has unimpeded access to economic opportunities.
Through the adoption of inclusive practices and equitable policies, we can establish a 21st century economy where organizational equity produces diversity at every level, and equality of opportunity for all is a defining feature.
Colors of Success Event Series
Workplace equity and diversity in all its forms, (including race, gender, ability (physical, psychological), sexual orientation, religion, and others,) is a defining feature of a successful organization. Diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace is shown to improve productivity, creativity, employee engagement and retention, company reputation, plus add skills and cultural insights that can prove a strategic advantage. In short, DEI can and does positively impact the bottom line.
With this event series, we seek to inform, inspire, and encourage organizations to improve workplace equity in the Greater Rochester area and beyond.
Colors of Success Inclusive Leadership Award
The Colors of Success Inclusive Leadership Award celebrates individuals who have shown outstanding leadership in fostering a sense of belonging, ensuring economic fairness, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences in their workplace and the Greater Rochester community. This award recognizes those whose efforts have positively impacted the cultural and economic fabric of their environment and is awarded annually.
DEI Leadership Exchange Program
Newly created to launch in 2023, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Leadership Exchange provides an exclusive space for top diversity executives in the Greater Rochester community to share ideas, skills, and strategies to shape business practices and create meaningful differences in their organizations and community. This unique program creates a meaningful conversation about DEI in today's workforce among top executives who can implement initiatives. This program was created based off framework provided by Buffalo Niagara Partnership which has been successfully running a DEI Leadership Exchange program for the last four years and counting.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Training
This training builds knowledge and skills and is an important step towards creating a strong and sustainable climate of inclusion in your organization. DEI training programs are also an essential aspect of building engaged and happy teams. Organizations with strong diversity climates are more likely to have increased job satisfaction, higher levels of trust, and more engaged employees. DEI Training is key to moving your organization forward towards inclusivity and impactful change.
Want to learn more?
Contact Susan George, Director of Events, Training & Affiliates at Susan.George@GreaterRochesterChamber.com.