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Celebrating Diversity: The Birth of UNITY at McKesson
In a world increasingly conscious of diversity and inclusion, McKesson’s initiative to honor Native American and Indigenous heritage through their employee resource group (ERG), UNITY, is a powerful step forward. Launched in response to the growing recognition of Native American Heritage Month, this group has quickly evolved into a vibrant community for employees to share experiences and celebrate their identities.
Inspiring Leadership Through Personal Stories
Two remarkable figures leading the charge within UNITY are Sharon Longwell and her daughter Laura Longwell. With a rich family background intertwined with the Great Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Sharon brings her passion for heritage and inclusive leadership to McKesson. As the Vice President for McKesson Health Systems, her approach goes beyond traditional corporate duties; she aims to eliminate barriers for her colleagues to thrive. "My biggest leadership role is to eliminate obstacles so people can do what they need to do for McKesson," Sharon asserts, echoing a vital theme: leadership in an employee-centric environment.
The Growth of UNITY and Its Impact
Within just a year of its inception, UNITY has grown from 50 members to over 500, showcasing the evolving landscape of corporate ERGs and their importance in fostering a sense of belonging among employees from different backgrounds. Members include descendants of historical figures, such as the granddaughter of a World War II Navajo Code Talker, demonstrating the diverse heritage represented within the group. This profound level of engagement not only aids in personal growth for its members but strengthens McKesson’s overall workplace culture.
Diversity as a Corporate Asset
Sharon emphasizes the significance of ERGs in creating a diverse and inclusive company. "You cannot shine if you are trying to hide or cover up part of what makes you great," she explains. By supporting employee groups like UNITY, McKesson is not merely fulfilling a corporate obligation; rather, they are enriching their organizational fabric, making it a better place for all employees to learn and grow. This dynamic ties into broader industry trends where successful corporations are aligning their objectives with community and employee engagement initiatives.
Join the Movement: Embrace the UNITY Spirit
As organizations make strides towards inclusivity and diversity, the story of McKesson’s UNITY serves as an inspiring example for other corporations. Creating spaces where employees can express their identities and heritage is not just an ethical imperative, but a business strategy that could lead to improved outcomes and employee retention. Companies everywhere are called to reflect on how they can better support their employee resource groups, driven by real stories and genuine commitment.
As you reflect on your workplace's ERG initiatives, consider how you can further support such groups within your organization. Whether through leadership sponsorship or boosting the visibility of their successes, every effort counts in building an inclusive and supportive corporate culture.
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