The BWL unconditionally denounces systemic racism and stands shoulder-to-shoulder with those who continue to suffer and lose their lives because of it. Racism 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
Purpose
The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee's purpose is to support the BWL’s mission and values by promoting shared, authentic values of inclusion, equity, respect and understanding of those we work with throughout our organization and community. Therefore, we will treat all people with dignity and fairness first. We will value diverse opinions and world views, and we will meet people where they are on their diversity and inclusion journey.
Commitment
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 viewpoints.
What We Mean by Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
Diversity: All individuals and their unique attributes, backgrounds, experiences and viewpoints.
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.
Examples of Change
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
Created Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee that actively recruits members representing all aspects of diversity, dedicated to promoting shared, authentic values of inclusion, equity, respect and understanding
DEI Strategic Plan
Developed a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategic plan as a roadmap to achieve a greater culture of inclusion, respect and understanding
Diversity Training
Ongoing diversity training for every employee, beginning in 2019, focused on four core areas:
- Understanding generations in the workplace
- Cultural Intelligence
- Identifying and removing stereotypes, biases and isms
- Identifying and Removing microaggressions
Top Down Support
Support from general manager, with communications encouraging effective employee dialogue
Internal & External Speakers
Continue diversity related talks with hosted guest speakers, employee “fireside chats,” and open access to internal communication channels
Community Sponsor
Sponsor of several diversity and cultural events in the greater Lansing region
Join Our Team
We're looking for the Next Generation of Power as we become the Utility of the Future.