Leading Inclusion

About the Author

Gena Cox is a Ph.D. organizational psychologist, executive coach, and an expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with extensive experience helping organizations develop inclusive cultures. As a Black woman, mother, and immigrant, her personal and professional experiences have uniquely equipped her to address the persistent challenges of racial inequality in American workplaces. In her book, Leading Inclusion: Drive Change Your Employees Can See and Feel, Cox provides a comprehensive guide for leaders committed to fostering a truly inclusive workplace.

Main Idea

The central premise of Leading Inclusion is that creating an organization that values inclusion must start from the top down. Gena Cox introduces the "Respect First" R.E.D.I. (Respect, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) approach, which she developed through extensive research and interviews with DEI practitioners, executives, and employees of color. This approach is designed to help leaders build and sustain an inclusive culture where all employees feel seen, heard, and valued. The book emphasizes the importance of bold action and leadership in driving meaningful and visible change.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Part 1: Skin in the Game
   1. CEOs Can Change America, One Employee at a Time
   2. Yesterday Explains Today
3. Part 2: Mindset: Rethink What You Believe
   1. The Diversity and Inclusion Imperative
   2. Understand Your Beliefs about REDI
   3. The Truth About Working in Your Organization
4. Part 3: Boldness: Make Inclusion Scalable
   1. CEO and Board Using the Same Playbook
   2. The C-Suite Inclusion Infusion
   3. A CDO with Resources and Political Clout
   4. Meeting in the Middle
5. Part 4: Action: It Won’t Be Easy, But It Can Be Done
   1. HR and the Science of Inclusive Leadership
   2. Seeing All Women Clearly
   3. How to Build a Workplace Culture
6. Conclusion: Making Corporate America Better

Analyzing and Explaining Each Idea

Introduction

Gena Cox begins by addressing the pervasive issue of racial discrimination in the workplace, particularly against Black employees. She highlights the need for leaders to set a vision for diversity and inclusion and to implement it throughout their organizations. The goal is to create a work environment where all employees can feel the difference in their daily experiences.

Part 1: Skin in the Game

CEOs Can Change America, One Employee at a Time

The tragic deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor brought racial injustice into sharp focus. Cox argues that leaders have a moral and strategic responsibility to address these issues within their organizations. She introduces the R.E.D.I. model, which emphasizes respect as the foundation for equity, diversity, and inclusion. Leaders must take proactive steps to incorporate REDI into their business strategies to drive visible change.