The BWL unconditionally denounces systemic racism—it has no home at the BWL. Instead, we choose to live our motto: Hometown People, being the diverse individuals - employees and customers alike, comprising the rich tapestry of the greater Lansing region; Hometown Power, our combined strength as we promote social justice, together, as one.
Dick Peffley, General Manager
Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The BWL staff and leadership, our governing Board of Commissioners, and the BWL Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee are committed to ensuring an inclusive environment where all individuals experience a sense of belonging, respect and are empowered to be their authentic selves. We are committed to equitable treatment, and elimination of discrimination in all forms. We acknowledge and honor the fundamental value and dignity of all people, including our customers and those with whom we do business, and pledge ourselves to creating and maintaining an environment that respects unique attributes, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
What We Mean by Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
Diversity: All individuals and their unique attributes, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
Equity: Individuals receive fair support and resources they uniquely need to be successful.
Inclusion: All individuals experience a sense of belonging, respect and are empowered to be their authentic selves.
For years, we've been committed to hiring veterans all across our organization. The success and value they bring to our departments and company as a whole is unmatched. We were recently featured in Military Makeover: Operation Career with Montel Williams airing on Lifetime, which highlights veterans who have made positive transitions to civilian life at companies who offer opportunities like the BWL. Check out some of our veterans in action here.
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce in partnership with LEAP recognized BWL with the Diversity Star Award which celebrates organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership in advancing equity, fostering inclusion and championing diversity in the community. We're proud to be turning inclusion into impact. Read more about this award and our efforts here.
BWL Promotes an Equitable and Inclusive Culture
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Department
Executes BWL’s strategic priorities and ensures alignment with the mission, vision and values.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
Made up of BWL employees who work as strategic partners alongside the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Department to foster and maintain a culture of inclusion and belonging at all levels of the organization.
Employee Business Resource Groups (EBRGs)
BWL’s Employee Business Resource Groups are employee-led, self-directed voluntary groups that foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with BWL’s mission, vision and values. EBRG participation is open to all BWL employees.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Champion Award
The BWL Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Champion Award honors employees who demonstrate outstanding leadership and dedication to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion within BWL and throughout the Greater Lansing community. This competitive award is open to all BWL employees.
Opportunities for Learning & Development
New Employee Orientation
From their first day of employment, all new hires learn what diversity, equity & inclusion means to the BWL, why it matters and what they can do to help sustain an inclusive culture.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Foundations for Employees
All employees complete four hours of professional development covering biases, microaggressions, generational differences and cultural competence within the first six months of employment.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Foundations for Management
All management participate in professional development that emphasize best practices for inclusive recruitment, hiring and evaluation, and for creating and maintaining an inclusive culture within their departments.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Emerging Leaders
Participants in BWL's internal Emerging Leaders Academy learn best practices to lead and promote a culture of inclusion.
Current Topics on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
All employees can elect to participate in additional learning opportunities on current issues that impact BWL's inclusive culture.
Monthly Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Resource
The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Department publishes monthly resources available for all departments to share in their monthly meetings to inform and engage team members on various diversity topics.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Activities & Events
Employees have opportunities to participate in various activities and events that celebrate BWL's rich cultural diversity.
Community Focus
The BWL sponsors a wide variety of cultural events in the Greater Lansing Region and supports employee volunteerism during these events.
Join Our Team
We're looking for the Next Generation of Power.