DEI – diversity, equity and inclusion – is a term you have probably seen a lot lately. In fact, TESU has made it the focus for the first quarter of our year-long 50th Anniversary celebrations.
But what does DEI mean? Why does it, or should it, matter?
To truly advance diversity, equity and inclusion, we need a clear understanding of each concept and the role we play in each one:
Diversity refers to human differences that may include, but are not limited to, race, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, creed, (dis)ability, political perspective, language, culture and socioeconomic status.
Equity refers to just and fair policies, procedures and practices that ensure all diverse groups have equal access to resources and opportunities. Being equitable also requires an understanding of historic and current disparities within our society.
Inclusion ensures that all diverse groups are welcomed and feel a sense of belonging. Being inclusive means enabling full participation in the decision-making process to allow employees to achieve success or reach their full potential.
In keeping with DEI as our focus for Edison Day, the annual staff development day commemorating Thomas Edison’s birthday on Feb. 11, TESU invited Aisha Thomas-Petit, chief People and Diversity officer at AMC Networks, Inc. as a special keynote speaker. Watch below as Thomas-Petit shares her uniquely informed perspective and wealth of experience in the DEI sphere in industries ranging from the film and media industry, to finance and human resources.
About Aisha Thomas-Petit
Thomas-Petit joined AMC Networks in 2020 as its first chief People and Diversity officer. In this role, Thomas-Petit builds on the company’s current DEI foundation, partnering with senior leaders to advance the company’s DEI goals. She plays an integral role in setting the strategy, road map and success measures to build, develop and retain a diverse and inclusive community of talent within the company’s workforce as well as behind the camera and on-screen.
Previously, she worked at ADP where she rose through its ranks, culminating as the head of Diversity, Inclusion & Corporate Social Responsibility. Thomas-Petit also spent more than seven years at Barclays Capital, where she ultimately became the human resources director for Global Operations. Prior to Barclays, Thomas-Petit spent eight years at JP Morgan Chase, where she held several leadership roles.
Thomas-Petit holds a Master of Business Administration degree in marketing and business strategy from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from Syracuse University, where she graduated magna cum laude. She resides in New Jersey with her family.
Written by Thomas Edison State University