Diversity and inclusion is critical be it in the traditional workplace, in the VC and entrepreneurial world and amongst people in leadership and influential roles (example on Boards). Three Indian American women, Gitanjali Swamy, Mandy Pant and Ranjani Saigal, have worked closely with Senator Cindy Friedman to work on a Bill (See MA Bill S.939) in the Massachusetts Legislature on protection against harassment and discrimination in the non-traditional workplace. If S. 939 is passed, it will equalize harassment and discrimination protections by folding investor and sponsor relationships into the same legal standard currently active in the traditional employer-employee relationships.
Swamy, Pant and Saigal met with Senator Cindy Friedman and a few other business leaders at the breakfast hosted by entrepreneur and founder, The Transition Institute, LLC, Linda Rosetti at the UMass Boston Club in Boston on Jan 15th to participate in discussions exploring Board diversity in the MA Innovation Economy/Emerging Business Community.
After a brief introduction, Senator Friedman described the focus of her work. She has been a champion for several causes. Her work on Mental Health support in the Commonwealth is phenomenal. She is the sponsor and champion for S.939. "I really want to commend Senator Friedman on the thorough work on the bill" said Swamy, who has worked closely with the Senator on the bill.
The discussion opened with discussion on the definition of the problem. Research clearly indicates that investing in women run businesses or in companies that have significant presence of women on the boards has a high rate of success. Yet support of women entrepreneurs is lacking. Ideas on how we could address the problem was discussed.
"The concept of "nudge" policies that encourage folks to behave in their own self interest but also achieve positive social goals would be the way to move forward", Lyn Christiansen.
"I would urge forming a MA committee or counsel to put forward the best recommendation on how to address the problem as defined today.
The government has both carrots and sticks and longer term social interventions. We need to determine the most appropriate form and place of intervention" said Swamy.
In addition to legislation support, creating sustained awareness amongst the student community proactively and never compromising on quality were some of the ideas discussed to address the challenge on ensuring diversity on Boards.
The group decided to continue to engage and discuss this further. The group was emphatic in the need to support one another and the need to exercise their voice so it can be heard.
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