Our Purpose:
We believe all Washingtonians must have the same opportunities free of the barriers of racism. We believe racial equity is achievable. Our coalition of employers from across Washington state is committed to supporting Black Washingtonians and building a future rooted in equity for all. We start by setting collective goals and working to achieve equity in the area where we believe we can have the most impact – the workplace. We further commit to support advocacy and action to advance equity throughout our state.
Our Research:
We have been on a journey to listen, learn, and better understand as a business community the causes and impacts of racial inequity. We focus on Black Washingtonians because of the long history of injustice and degree of inequity experienced by Black Americans. We gathered data and spoke to Black community and business leaders, data and research experts, and racial equity specialists. The findings are not new. Rather, they reconfirm that Black Washingtonians experience racial inequity in multiple facets of life, including the workplace. They further offer clear evidence that racial bias and structural inequities exist in our country and our state. Our call to Washington employers: Read our report and join us in supporting a more equitable future.
Our Coalition:
Washington Employers for Racial Equity unites committed corporate leaders and employers from across the state, representing companies large, small, local, and global. Founding sponsors, Challenge Seattle and Washington Roundtable, are joined by regional and statewide business associations representing employers committed to the pursuit of racial equity in the workplace and in our state. The path ahead is long, and the need for action is urgent.
Our Commitment:
Washington employers are signing this commitment to support the pursuit of racial equity for Black Washingtonians and all people in Washington state. We start by committing to our employees, customers, and communities that we will listen, learn, partner, and engage in the work necessary to advance equity in the workplace. We will set measurable targets, assess progress, and publicly report on collective results. Further, we will advocate for public policies that advance racial equity in our state.
*Our coalition continues to grow. Signers list current as of 08.30.2022.
Our Resources:
WERE is committed to measuring and reporting on collective progress; examining the impacts of processes, policies, and systems that influence the development and advancement of Black talent and Black-owned businesses; and sharing examples of best and promising business practices that can accelerate equity.