Celebrating Pride: Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at National Corporate Housing

Published By Tom Colucci, SVP Human Resources June 20, 2024

 

At National Corporate Housing, we believe that people matter. This core value drives our commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive (DEI) environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered. As part of our ongoing DEI initiatives, we celebrate Pride Month with enthusiasm and dedication, recognizing the importance of supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

 

Pride Month and Our DEI Commitment

Pride Month is a significant time for recognizing and honoring the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as acknowledging the ongoing struggle for equality. We are proud to announce the release of an optional Pride Month Educational Awareness Training available to all employees on our learning platform. This training aligns with our overarching goal of integrating DEI principles into every facet of our business, enriching our organizational culture, and enhancing our ability to connect meaningfully with everyone.

Earlier this year, we launched an optional Black History Month training and committed to rolling out more educational awareness programs throughout the year. These initiatives reflect our dedication to respecting and valuing every individual, promoting inclusivity, and fostering respect.

 

Our DEI Initiatives: Building an Inclusive Culture

Our commitment to DEI is reflected in various initiatives and programs designed to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all associates. Here are some key aspects of our DEI strategy:

Encouraging the Use of Pronouns

At National, we understand the importance of respecting individuals' identities. We encourage all associates to share their preferred pronouns, fostering an environment where everyone feels acknowledged and respected for who they are. This practice helps build a culture of understanding and acceptance, where diversity is celebrated.

Diversity Training Programs

To deepen our understanding of diverse experiences and perspectives, we provide comprehensive diversity training for all associates. These programs aim to broaden our perspectives, enhance our cultural competence, and reinforce our commitment to equity and inclusion. The Pride Month training is a pivotal step in this journey, promoting awareness and inclusivity within our workforce.

A DEI-Focused Book Club

We believe that continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth. Our book club offers associates an opportunity to explore literature that highlights diverse voices and experiences. This initiative not only fosters a culture of learning but also encourages meaningful conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Gender-Neutral Job Applications

In our effort to create an inclusive recruitment process, we have reviewed all our job applications to ensure the use of gender-neutral language. This change helps eliminate unconscious bias and promotes equal opportunities for all candidates, regardless of gender. By adopting inclusive language, we reinforce our commitment to diversity and equity from the very first interaction with potential associates.

 

Social Approach: A Commitment to Diversity

Our social approach is grounded in the belief that a diverse and inclusive workforce is key to our success. According to our 2023 CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Report, we have a 72% female workforce, with 57% of women in leadership roles and 27% people of color (POC) in leadership roles. These figures reflect our dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable workplace.

We are also proud to support our associates' well-being through various health and wellness programs. This holistic approach to associate care underscores our belief that supporting our employees in every aspect of their lives is crucial for their overall happiness and productivity.

"While working at National, I have learned that our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is more than just a policy—it's a core value that influences every facet of our company. Celebrating Pride Month through educational initiatives and fostering a supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community exemplifies our dedication to honoring each individual's identity. I am proud to be part of a team that respects and celebrates diversity, creating a place where everyone feels at home."
- Madison R., Brand Manager

 

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate Pride Month and reflect on our DEI journey, we are excited about the future. We remain committed to furthering our DEI efforts, investing in programs that strengthen our talent pipeline, and empowering our workforce. At National, we want all our employees and guests to feel at home, wherever they are and whoever they are. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, we strive to create a workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can thrive.

CSR REPORT

For more details on our DEI initiatives and to explore our comprehensive CSR efforts, please refer to our 2023 CSR Report.