In 1853 American-born company, Levi Strauss & Co (LS&Co) disrupted the fashion industry with the invention of the blue jean trouser. Well over a century later, Levi’s is the most popular denim brand in the world.
With major popularity, comes major responsibility. With a globally diverse consumer base and an equally diverse network of leadership and teams, Levi’s made the call to be introspective about their company values. They took immediate action in June 2020 following the uprise of the Black Lives Matter movement. The murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and too many others prompted a series of critical commitments to increase diversity.
Levi’s pulls in top-notch talent and shares their progress
Chief Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Officer Elizabeth A. Morrison ensure the brand demonstrates a welcoming working culture to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
Her impressive resume includes 20 years of driving diversity and culture within companies like Live Nation Entertainment, Campbell Soup Company, and Comcast.
Along with welcoming a D&I heavyweight, Levi’s has also vowed to share their annual demographic representation data. The report breaks down the company from executive management to in-store workforce and includes gender and race demographics.
In the spirit of transparency, LS&Co. admits to having the most work within their corporate U.S. leadership. They aim for better Black and Latinx representation throughout their ranks.
Engaging internal communities help strengthen voices
The Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are another tangible effort that aids in diverse retention. They are safe spaces for employees to come together to add their voices and share experiences.
One of the ERGs includes the American-based Project Onyx, which is dedicated to cultivating, strengthening, and sustaining positive relationships between Black employees.
The UK-based equivalent is Sawubona, a safe space for Black and African employees to seek advice and share ideas; raise awareness, dialogue, and much more.
The 12 ERGs vary from mental wellness advocacy, immigrant resources, and narratives, LGBTQ+ representation, and events, among others.
The new future for LS&Co. includes the diaspora
Morrison noted that creating a more inclusive culture is “not just the right thing to do – it’s a business imperative.” She goes on to say that companies are stronger and more successful when they are diverse and inclusive. We couldn’t agree more.
These initiatives construct the perfect dynamic for a partnership with the BYP Network. BYP is constantly striving to change the Black narrative. With Morrison’s leadership, LS&Co. is actively creating the environment for creative and smart Black talent to join its ranks and truly be heard.
They are committed and open to the necessary forward-thinking that allows all present and future team members to bring their true and authentic selves to work every day.
So the next time you’re picking out your newest pair of Levi’s or scanning the BYP job board for opportunities, find comfort in LS&Co.’s mission to be an ally and support to the Diaspora.
