Resolution 090597

..Title Authorizing City Council's Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold a public hearing to assess current policies and procedures utilized by publicly-held and other corporate entities and their efforts to increase diversity and minority inclusion in the workplace, in an effort, among other things, to match the diverse population that they serve. ..Body WHEREAS, Many publicly-held and other corporate entities realize that the population to which they offer their goods and services is becoming more diverse and will continue to do so in the future and thereby, among other things, it creates, as part of their corporate goals, a business case for diversity within their own workforce; and WHEREAS, In the realm of diversity and minority inclusion, many corporate law departments have in place specific plans aimed at removing the barriers to success for traditionally under-represented groups; and WHEREAS, By eliminating obstacles, people in these groups have an open path that enables them to contribute more successfully to their corporate goals; and WHEREAS, There are many success stories of publicly-held corporations who not only brought the issues of diversity and minority inclusion to the forefront, but actually implemented plans that resulted in true positive change; and WHEREAS, It is necessary to study and develop a plan to bring the issues of diversity and minority inclusion to the forefront; and WHEREAS, Inclusion creates a professionally nurturing environment in which all employees have equitable access to opportunities for personal and professional growth; and WHEREAS, It is essential to engage area businesses and minority leadership in meaningful dialog about the serious gaps that exist and the economic barriers that inhibit minority participation and success; and WHEREAS, The truly successful entities have a common theme, and these hearings should flush out the best practices in order to aide the City in its efforts to increase diversity and minority inclusion in the workplace; and WHEREAS, To be successful, the City must forge groundbreaking partnerships with both minority and majority business owners and community leaders. RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That City Council Hereby Authorize City Council's Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold a public hearing to assess current policies and procedures utilized by publicly-held and other corporate entities and their efforts to increase diversity and minority inclusion in the workplace. ..End