The past two weeks have had a profound impact on each of us, as individuals and as a country. George Floyd joins Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and so many other black Americans who have died as a result of systemic racism. Mr. Floyd’s death at the hands of people sworn to protect and serve has been a catalyst for conversation, protest and debate around the deep wounds that are still exposed as a result of centuries of racism. We are once again challenged to reflect on the society in which we live and future we want to build.

The peaceful protests that have taken shape across the country reflect the pain of communities that for too long have been subject to bigotry, disenfranchisement and hatred. We cannot be blind to or become desensitized to the systemic inequality that limit the potential of people because of the color of their skin. We should demand more – more than words, but real change.

NEI is committed to a workplace that is free from hate, bigotry and fear. However, we recognize that we must do more. We are launching a program within our organization to help us identify efforts NEI can support that will create long-term change within our industry. It is an industry that needs to achieve greater diversity in our workforce and our leadership. As we explore opportunities to address racial inequalities and other issues resulting in a lack of diversity and opportunity, NEI is committing to the following:

• Building a pipeline of diversity in the industry by working with organizations dedicated to workforce development; including working with professional organizations that support underrepresented communities in engineering and STEM fields.
• Expanding our commitment to our employees. NEI currently provides mandatory unconscious bias training for all staff. These efforts will be expanded to promote greater awareness, diversity and inclusion.
• Donating $10,000 to the Equal Justice Initiative, an organization dedicated to challenging racial and economic injustice.

As an industry and a nation, we have more work to do. NEI pledges to be a leader to effect change.