Embedded Files
Problem: Avoiding the "Equity Washing" Trap
Problem: Avoiding the "Equity Washing" Trap
Many mid-sized foundations find themselves commited to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their giving, but they often show clear gaps in diversity on their board and in their leadership. The 2024 DAPP report highlighted an ongoing national trend: organizations know they can’t stay silent on DEI, but worry that a public statement about their commitment will sound empty or trigger accusations of “equity washing.”
They want diversity, but lack the internal proof to back up their commitment.
The traditional PR approach might be to minimize the truth and polish the language. The Paritas Narrativa approach, rooted in the belief that true trust requires authenticity, dictates organizations do the opposite: embrace the journey.
The Paritas Narrativa Framework
The Paritas Narrativa Framework
The core communications problem here isn't the organization's writing, but the gap in their credibility. This new age approach coaches organizations to embrace change rather than hide their current reality:
Step One: Integrity Audit
Conduct a thorough review of all public-facing content (website, annual report, social media) and flag any statement that promises diversity without a corresponding measurable action. The organization holds itself accountable.
Step Two: Proactive Pivot
The communications focus is shifted away from making empty claims about diversity and toward discussing the specific, measurable action steps being taken to improve representation over a set time period.
Step Three: Feature Diverse Voices
Design a strategy that heavily features the diverse voices and stories of the recipients of grants. This allows foundations to demonstrate its commitment to equity through its actions and impact, rather than solely relying on its internal structure.
Expected Result: Trust & Credibility
Expected Result: Trust & Credibility
By facing their internal reality head-on and being transparent, organizations that adopt this framework can successfully launch a new communications foundation that yields ideal returns. The shift in public perception will give significant credit for the transparency demonstrated and proven proactive commitment to change.
By acknowledging gaps and showing active action, organizations can:
Avoid public backlash and gain respect.
Attract more diverse talent.
Establish long-term credibility with community organizations and grant recipients.
When your communication strategy is informed by integrity, you don’t have to run from difficult data - use it to build lasting trust.
Report abuse