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lansingchamber.org DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Courtesy MSUFCU

The Power of Partnership: Advancing DEIB Work
Through Collaboration

By Taylor Moberg, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Manager, MSUFCU

reating an inclusive workplace requires more than When we renovated our headquarters, our affinity
good intentions—it requires strategic partnerships. groups representing employees with disabilities and
CAt MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), we've neurodivergent individuals gave input that shaped the
found that collaboration is the key to driving our Diversity, building’s design.
Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives. Here
are some actionable insights for business owners looking Actionable item: Encourage open dialogue and create
to foster a more inclusive environment: a psychologically safe environment where all can
contribute.
ENGAGE YOUR TEAM'S UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES
SMART PARTNERSHIPS LEAD TO BETTER DECISIONS
One of our most valuable resources has been our
employee groups, like our CU Pride Affinity Group. By Partnering with experts and diverse voices not only
involving them in our decision-making process, we drives innovation but also helps prevent hidden spots
ensured that our initiatives, such as our Pride Month in your strategy. We’ve seen how integrating different
campaign, authentically represented the LGBTQIA+ perspectives leads to smarter decision-making and long-
community. term growth.

Actionable item: Build a platform where your employees Actionable item: Actively seek partnerships with
can voice their perspectives and use those insights to individuals and organizations that bring new ideas to the
guide your DEIB efforts. table.

TRUST AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY MATTER Building a stronger business starts with inclusion. When
you bring diverse perspectives into the fold, you’re not
Effective collaboration requires a culture where just creating a better workplace—you’re paving the way
employees feel safe to speak up without fear of judgment. for a more inclusive future for everyone. l

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