Q1
What about other under-represented groups? How does this effort intersect with our broader commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion?
A1
The groundwork and deep dive on data that we have done to date shows that a clear and surgical strategy targeting the Black population is necessary if we are to truly move towards undoing the ills of systemic racism in our community. This effort is a reflection of that assessment and also acknowledges the diversity and intersectionality that exists within our Black population.
In addition to powering the ATL Action for Racial Equity, the metro Atlanta Chamber continues to execute efforts that target the broad scope of diversity — across gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and other identities — and expects that our business community will do the same. In addition, many of the actions included in our playbooks can be used to close disparity gaps that impact other under-represented groups.
Q2
When signing on to ATL Action for Racial Equity, am I committing my company to following EVERY action in the playbook?
A2
No, we understand that each organization must take an approach that is realistic and fits with their own priorities and capabilities for the year. However, we encourage each company to act on as many items in the playbook as possible for maximum collective impact.
Q3
When can I review the playbooks? How do I utilize the playbooks?
A3
All the playbooks are available for review here:
Playbook 1 - Corporate Policies
Playbook 2 - Inclusive Economic Development
Playbook 3 & 4 - Education & Workforce Development
Participating organizations will self-select the actions that are most appropriate for them based on their stage in the DEI journey. Click here to review How to Utilize the Playbooks.
Q4
If my company operates nationally or even globally, is there a requirement that these actions be implemented across our full operations (ie. in other states, other countries, etc.)?
A4
No, ATL Action for Racial Equity is committed to moving the needle beginning in our own region and the 29 counties that the Metro Atlanta Chamber serves. See a map of metro Atlanta here.
Q5
What company metrics am I required to provide? Will the metrics be made public?
A5
We are in the process of building out a series of questions that will be provided to every company signing on to ATL Action for Racial Equity. At a high level, our approach will aim to capture top line data re: the makeup of your workforce through the lens of diversity. We will also add in additional questions that speak more directly to Atlanta and are binary in their phrasing.
Company data will not be shared publicly; however, the information you provide may be shared in an aggregated form representing all companies participating in the initiative. If you would like to participate in our metrics planning process, email ATLActionForRacialEquity@macoc.com.
Companies will be able to opt out of questions as they see fit.
Q6
How frequently will I need to provide company data?
A6
We are working from a timeline where data will be collected on an annual basis – once per year.
Q7
What if my company is already implementing some or all of the action plans?
A7
This is great! The plan is designed so that a majority of our business community can participate while still moving the needle in a meaningful way.
Q8
Does my CEO have to sign on to the initiative?
A8
We believe that commitment from the top is important. It is our preference that your company’s commitment to ATL Action for Racial Equity comes with a personal commitment from your CEO.
Q9
What is the confidentiality process regarding the measurement of company data shared in the annual survey?
A9
We will include a confidentiality statement stating who will have access to the data and how it will be reported. So that we can gather feedback — both positive and constructive — and analyze the results in detail, we decided to partner with Creative Research Solutions, an independent third party, to conduct this survey. To ensure confidentiality, Creative Research Solutions will never identify individual participant responses to anyone at a particular company.
Q10
How will the annual survey data be shared?
A10
All individual responses will be collected by Creative Research Solutions and will be kept strictly confidential. Your organization will receive a summary of responses in aggregate form. In addition, the survey is encrypted using SSL technology to ensure that only Creative Research Solutions can capture the survey results.
Q11
What is the purpose and impact of the annual survey?
A11
The purpose and impact of the annual survey is to provide a data reference point to highlight the action steps our committed companies have taken towards closing the racial equity. The survey will give us insight into what’s working and what needs to be adjusted for this effort to consistently keep racial equity a top priority with Metro Atlanta business community.
Worth noting, we recognize that a surgical approach is necessary to solve for the major challenges many under-represented groups face and may sequence efforts targeting additional demographics into this work over time. It’s a journey.
