As 2023 draws to a close, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) remains a perennial hot-button topic that companies, no matter what business they’re in, must contend with not only to function on a day-to-day basis but to sustain future growth.

Chief Strategy & Revenue Officer and Chief of Staff to Executive Chairman anna.magzanyan@latimes.com.

The recently published Deloitte Global 2023 LGBT+ Inclusion @ Work Report explores the experiences of more than 5,400 non-Deloitte LGBT+ respondents who work in various sectors across 13 countries through the lens of both sexual orientation and gender identity.

To progress on DEI goals and outcomes, DEI leaders must strengthen their role’s impact.

Across the country, Easterseals is leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing disability and community services.

Earlier this year, Ernst & Young announced the results of the third iteration of the “Belonging Barometer,” revealing the perspectives of employed adults from various industries and organizations across the globe.

Employers are viewed more positively, even when they disclose negative data, study finds.

Access to higher education will be key to fostering important principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) data from 315 venture capital (VC) firms, representing more than 5,700 U.S.-based, full-time employees and $594.5 billion in assets under management, is now available as part of the “VC Human Capital Survey,” powered by Venture Forward, the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) and Deloitte.

The AbilityOne Program is among the nation’s largest sources of employment for people who are blind or have significant disabilities.

Survey shows U.S. employees with hearing loss are underrepresented in DE&I efforts.

In today’s dynamic work landscape, where being offered some kind of flexible working option is now the norm, many companies continue to grapple with the best way to implement flexible working to effectively balance their business goals with employee expectations.

The diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) pendulum has begun a swing downward from its high point of corporate adoption following the civil unrest in 2020, which saw consumers and employees demand organizations make public social commitments aimed at creating a more equitable workplace.

A recent Korn Ferry survey of professionals points to who has the responsibility to advance Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts within an organization and how the economy is impacting those efforts.

The Los Angeles Times B2B Publishing team is well aware that employees valued by leadership end up caring for each other — and their clients.

Kitty Bungalow Charm School for Wayward Cats.

Gibbs Giden Locher Turner Senet & Wittbrodt LLP.

HR Policy Association, representing chief human resource officers (CHROs) of more than 390 of the largest employers in the United States and globally, recently released its top findings from its annual spring survey, devoted to the major issues currently facing CHROs – racial justice and inclusion, pay equity and the impact of COVID-19 on the future of work.

DEIA Forum

The 2023 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Forum was held at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills on October 19.

When discussing modern initiatives built to increase equity, it’s also very important to understand those who have done work to create this conversation.

With so much discussion about what diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility is, sometimes lost is its practical application in the workplace.

Almost 35 years after the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, “accessibility” has taken on broad and varied meanings.

On belonging in a remote or hybrid work model.

Alejandra Alanis is a seasoned risk consulting manager at RSM US LLP with over nine years of experience in both internal and external audit roles. She kickstarted her career at Deloitte Seattle before joining RSM US LLP in November 2018.

Increasingly, corporations are recognizing the importance and need for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) initiatives in the workplace.

Rosie Arroyo, as a senior program officer overseeing the Immigrant Integration portfolio at the California Community Foundation (CCF), has played a pivotal role in advancing immigrant rights and early childhood education in the Greater Los Angeles area.

Kamala Avila-Salmon, as the head of inclusive content for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group (MPG), is at the forefront of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion within the film industry.

Patricia Brum is a distinguished business litigation partner at Snell & Wilmer, a prominent business law firm. Proudly identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, she is a dedicated advocate for inclusion in the legal profession.

Saundra Bryant boasts a remarkable 40-year career dedicated to community and industry associations, cementing her legacy as the executive director of All Peoples Community Center since 1983.

Valeisha Butterfield Jones is a globally recognized leader at the intersection of tech, entertainment and politics. In her role as vice president of partnerships and engagement at Google, she has transformed the DEI landscape.

Patrick Buelna, a distinguished trial attorney, has forged an exceptional career advocating for justice. His passion and tenacity have delivered numerous victories, securing multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in civil jury trials.

William Delgado, a founding partner at DTO Law, has been a dedicated advocate for diversifying the legal profession. As immediate vice chair of the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms (NAMWOLF) Board, he’s played a pivotal role in advancing diversity.

Derrick Coleman, a seasoned leader, heads GHJ Search and Staffing, demonstrating excellence in recruiting and talent acquisition. With expertise in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), his influence extends beyond recruitment.

Terrence Mark Franklin, an accomplished trusts and estates litigator, has made a profound impact on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) throughout his career. Recognized with Chambers and Partners’ “Lifetime Achievement Award,” he has tirelessly worked to advance DEIA in the legal industry.

Rodney Diggs, a named partner at Ivie McNeill Wyatt Purcell & Diggs, is a powerhouse attorney known for his commitment to advocacy, philanthropy and civic engagement. He has represented clients in high-profile excessive force, wrongful death and employment cases, gaining national recognition.

Marcos Gonzales is the founder & managing partner of VamosVentures, a venture capital fund dedicated to supporting Latinx and diverse founders in tech-enabled startups.

Keith M. Gregory, partner at Snell & Wilmer, is a dedicated leader in fostering diversity and inclusion. As co-chair of the firm’s First-Gen Forward program, he empowers first-generation attorneys by providing resources and support for their professional growth.

A renowned trial attorney with an exceptional record of securing substantial verdicts against major corporations and public entities, Arash Homampour is the founder of The Homampour Law Firm. His innovative use of technology like animation and graphics sets him apart as a disruptor in the legal field.

Reena Hajat Carroll, as the executive director of the California Conference for Equality and Justice (CCEJ), boasts over two decades of nonprofit leadership in the diversity, inclusion and equity field.

Dr. Royel Montel Johnson, a tenured professor at the University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education, is a distinguished scholar and leader in higher education.

Baraa Kahf, a partner at Knobbe Martens, is a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the legal community.

Alyssa Kavner, MA, BCBA, serves as the vice president of clinical training and quality at Easterseals Southern California.

Lee Ann Kline, as the president and founder of STEM Advantage, has dedicated herself to transforming the landscape of STEM education and career opportunities.

Adrian Ledda is the head of inclusive game design at Activision Blizzard, pioneering inclusivity into iconic gaming franchises like Call of Duty, Diablo and Candy Crush.

Mary Kohav is a highly experienced professional with over 25 years of expertise in strategic communications, community relations, DEI and social impact.

Madison Y. Li is a dynamic senior marketing manager at Cricket Wireless, which is part of the AT&T family. With two-plus years of dedicated service, she leads the brand’s marketing efforts in Southern California, a region with a substantial population of 23.

D Jason Lyon, a partner at Hahn & Hahn LLP and a Pasadena city councilmember, is a trailblazer who has dedicated his career to advancing LGBTQ+ rights and diversity.

Mark Masliah is a distinguished financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual known for his dedication to the LGBTQ+ community and financial planning. A member of the LGBTQ+ community, he played a pivotal role in establishing the district-level LGBTQ+ and Ally Council at Northwestern Mutual.

Jennifer Martinez is a trailblazer in the legal industry serving as Hanson Bridgett’s inaugural Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO) since January 1, 2021.

Byron McLain is a partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, recognized for his legal expertise and commitment to justice. He recently led the Foley team to a landmark victory in the historic Bruce’s Beach case, representing the County of Los Angeles in defense against a lawsuit aimed at preventing the property’s transfer and return to the Bruce family.

Steve O’Connell is the dedicated president and CEO of California Credit Union, with a remarkable career spanning over two decades devoted to strengthening communities and enhancing the lives of members through financial education, social responsibility and DEIA practices.

Christopher Pelham, head of litigation and disputes in Los Angeles for Norton Rose Fulbright, has been immersed in the world of law from a young age, captivated by courtroom dramas from his high school days.

With over three decades of banking experience, Nora Perez joined Enterprise Bank & Trust in 2022, rapidly becoming an asset to the community development team. Her mission is to enhance financial soundness in low- to moderate-income areas while forging lasting community relationships.

Adanté Pointer is a relentless and passionate champion for justice, representing both individuals and communities against powerful entities. He has fought for justice in high-profile cases, such as the Richmond Chevron Refinery Fire and the Oscar Grant case.

Gary L. Polk, Sr. is a seasoned Black businessman, CEO, business consultant and esteemed university professor with a strong background in banking and entrepreneurship. Holding a bachelor’s degree and leveraging his 10-year career as a banker, his expertise in finance became the cornerstone of his teaching career.

Julia Romano, a partner at King & Spalding, is a standout lawyer dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Her pro bono work has secured asylum for transgender women, making a remarkable impact.

Dan Sasse is a dynamic leader and partner at Crowell & Moring LLP, consistently dedicated to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal community.

Sonia Smith Kang, the founder of Mixed Up Clothing, is a fashion pioneer and advocate for multicultural representation. Her mission-driven childrens-wear brand draws from her AfroLatina heritage and commitment to diversity. Recognized as a certified Women Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE), Smith Kang’s work has challenged the lack of cultural representation in the fashion industry.

Dr. Tana M. Session, CEO & founder of TanaMSession.com, a certified Women Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE), boasts over 30 years of human resources expertise. Her impact extends to hi-tech startups, fast-growth companies and major brands like McDonald’s, Xerox, Creed Perfumery and more.

Gary Teo is the EVP-chief human resources officer at East West Bank, known for his strategic leadership and dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). He is a trusted C-suite advisor with a results-driven mindset, guiding the bank through complex business transformations while prioritizing DEI initiatives.

Katrina Thornton, known as “KT,” is Taco Bell’s chief equity, inclusion and belonging officer. Since joining in 2021, she partnered with all levels of the organization to build out, crystalized and transformed Taco Bell’s DE&I strategy.

Kiana Webb, founder of Glorious Arisings and CEO of Webb Family Enterprises, stands as a beacon of empowerment and leadership. With a remarkable career rooted in uplifting the Black community, her legacy shines brightly.

Michelle Wahler, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Beyond Yoga, has driven the brand with an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and empowerment since its inception in 2005.

Anita Wu is a managing director at GHJ, specializing in profit participation services. With over 25 years of auditing experience in the entertainment industry, she oversees audits at major studios like Walt Disney Pictures and Television and MGM.

Yusuf Zakir is the chief diversity, equity & inclusion officer at Davis Wright Tremaine. With over eight years of experience at major law firms, he has dedicated his career to fostering diverse, equitable and inclusive environments.