Unfortunately, systemic bias persists in many forms today in marginalized communities. It manifests itself in a number of demonstrable ways – discrimination (housing, financial), inferior education, lack of access to quality healthcare, environmental injustice, harmful stereotypes, police brutality, voter suppression, hostile workplace environments, lack of professional opportunities, verbal harassment and economic disparities. Systemic bias engenders hopelessness and challenges our nation’s founding principle that all people are created equal.
While the choruses of “We can do better!” and “We must be better!” resonate louder and sound resolute enough to effect change, people have uttered these same exclamations for decades. At this tenuous point in our nation’s development, mere words, whether articulated as an individual or as a collective whole, are insufficient. Those that have lived under the weight of racism, bias and discrimination deserve empathetic partners that lead with action and courage. Dismissing the plight of marginalized communities is apathetic, egregious and irresponsible.
In recognition of our moral and civic responsibility to participate in the eradication of racism, bias and discrimination in our country, Pinnacle is committed to:
- PARTICIPATE in meaningful dialogue about race and equality with our employees, clients, vendors and complementary service providers
- EDUCATE our employees on issues related to racial justice
- SUPPORT employee efforts to address racism, bias and discrimination
- PARTNER with organizations that support activities to end systemic racism
- STRENGTHEN our current efforts to increase diversity in the actuarial profession
- ENGAGE in initiatives to increase diverse representation in our firm
Pinnacle established the Commission for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the fall of 2020 to develop specific action items related to the aforementioned commitments. The Commission reports directly to our Board of Directors. We have a long way in our journey to address racism, bias and discrimination. However, we believe that these six commitments will contribute to a more equitable and just nation and are key steps towards a world free from racism, bias and discrimination.