What We Learned
2. The Need to Refocus on Systemic Racism & Its Related Effects The data, while limited due to the sample sizes and survey approach, validates the Task Force’s and the EIC’s work in equity and systemic racism based on the available research. This is evidenced by observing the participation rate specifically in North America. With 86% of respondents from North America, and the notable variances in sentiment and influence held between White and Black respondents, we can assume that inequities in sentiment, participation and status are rooted in the effects of systemic racism and unconscious bias. The insights below can serve as a key benchmark to reflect the industry’s current state when observed across two racial and ethnic groups, White and Black respondents. • 83% of all survey respondents were employed event professionals who are dissatisfied with the DEI in the industry across the dimensions. • 102 individuals globally (16% of total respondents when weighted) who chose to self-identify by ethnicity as Black rate the DEI experience 11% lower across all 4 dimensions compared to ethnically White respondents, and 20% lower than the study average when observing both ethnicity and employment type. • White event professionals who self-identified (61%) are predominant across all job grades with minimal to no representation from other ethnicities, especially in senior management and board positions, where these individuals rate the DEI experience 13% higher than White respondents in mid-management.
“Our ownership is very, very conservative Christian, and very white. I feel we have some bias regarding people of colour, as most of our staff are white. I feel like men in my same position make more than I do as a woman, despite the fact that I have more years of experience than many of them. There is nothing blatant, and it is never discussed, but white men hold the highest level positions, and the lower level white probably get paid more than women in comparable positions. Our company is very inclusive of homosexuals and those of different religions, but I believe we have some ways to go before people of colour and women are on the same plane as white guys.” - Anonymous Open Ended Comment
These data points and select direct response comments reveal the need for additional discovery to help reveal how systemic racism and unconscious bias might be an issue particular to North America and select other regions (Europe).
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