ERNOP invites all interested (associated) members to contribute informed commentaries on ‘Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’. The contributions (2,000 words) can be insights, critical reflections, and comments and are submitted as a ‘Commentary’ for a special ERNOP Dialogue Paper series of the Journal of Philanthropy and Marketing on the topic.
Dialogue Kick-off: Central pillar article by Maja Spanu (Fondation de France) and Laetitia Gill (University of Geneva)
Authors Maja Spanu (Fondation de France) and Laetitia Gill (University of Geneva) built on their expertise, experience and outcomes of the Safes Space for Philanthropy that were organised in Zagreb last year. The article ‘From Diversity to Pluralsim: Is Everyone Included?’ aims to initiate thinking on ‘Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’. Their ‘Central Pillar’ article will be the beginning of a written conversation on this pivotal topic. The conversation will unfold as a special issue in the Journal of Philanthropy and Marketing in the form of ‘Dialogue Papers’, for which ERNOP members and associated members are invited to contribute.
Perspectives from (associated) ERNOP members are much valued, and we invite you to submit your insights, critical reflections, and comments as ‘Commentary’ for this special ERNOP Dialogue Paper series. Commentaries take a maximum of 2,000 words and are to be submitted by May 15, 2024.
Contributions will deepen the discussion on diversity, equity and inclusion within the ERNOP community and beyond. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the writing process, please feel free to reach out. More information about the Special ERNOP Dialogue Paper Series can be found here.
From diversity to pluralism: Is everyone included?
Abstract
The article discusses the growing recognition of the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in the philanthropic sector internationally. It explores how diversity goes beyond being a simple ‘buzzword’ and instead reflects the complex demographics and social structures in society. The article emphasises the need for philanthropic organisations to adapt to the world’s complexity, and address power dynamics and discrimination in order to fully embrace diversity.
The authors highlight concrete methods like diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) management that can be employed to foster more inclusive practices within organisations. They stress the significance of leadership vision and adaptability, as well as individual self-reflection, in making progress towards greater inclusion of the diverse voices that make up our societies. Importantly, the article suggests that embracing discomfort and adopting a posture of humility is key for growth and change within organisations. It discusses tools like the Wheel of Privilege and Power, which helps individuals understand their own privilege and position in society.
The authors advocate for rigorously measuring diversity and discrimination in the workplace to develop action plans and implement concrete measures. They believe that research and practice should collaborate to collect and analyse data effectively. The article also mentions the need for collective and open conversations within the philanthropic sector, acknowledging historical inequalities and privileges. Overall, the article emphasises the importance of moving from diversity to pluralism in the philanthropic sector to ensure coherence and greater social justice in the pursuit of deep social change.
To read and respond to the full article, (associated) members can click here.
About the ERNOP Dialogue Paper Series
Dialogues is a special issue series being developed and facilitated by the Journal of Philanthropy and Marketing. The primary aim of the Dialogues special issues is to stimulate discussion and debate around a trending theme pertinent (primarily) to the third sector and philanthropy-based activities. The overarching aspiration is to revolutionise current thinking and praxis within the fields of philanthropy to help develop philanthropic practice, set an agenda for future avenues of research, and publish ideas through a unique format of open peer commentary.
Published in an open access format, the Dialogue Papers Series will showcase five forward-thinking ‘central pillar’ articles related to impact, diversity, inclusion, empowerment, advocacy and leadership in philanthropy and alongside this, present a dialogue around these themes contributed by academics, practitioners and/or policymakers. The Dialogues build upon the ‘Safe Spaces for Philanthropy‘ that were organised as the pre-conference event to the biennial Research Conference of the European Research Network On Philanthropy.
Dialogues aims to stimulate discussion around trending themes within the discipline of philanthropy through ‘central pillar’ articles and ‘commentaries’. Central pillar articles can have practice-based, philosophical, methodological, or pedagogic foundations and will be written by primarily experts with an academic background.
In turn, the respondents to the central pillar article (commentators) will (respectfully) offer their critical reflections, highlighting lines of agreement, outlining points of discord, and diagnosing potential means to reconcile any divergent views. Commentaries can be writing by anyone that has an expertise related to a specific theme.