As we navigate the strategic considerations around implementing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within our credit unions, it is important to take a holistic approach to this work. It's messy, uncomfortable and needs to be addressed thoughtfully, with empathy, courage and curiosity.

DEI is top of mind and many organizations are just not sure where to start. There is fear of missteps and getting it wrong. Getting comfortable with being uncomfortable is not an easy ask. Here are a few questions to help center the discussion and begin to lay the foundation:

1. What is your credit union's mission and vision? And, does this align with your "why"?
2. Does your current organizational structure support DEI or hinder it?
3. What aspects of DEI are most important for your credit union to address?
4. Is diversity distributed across all levels of the credit union?
5. Does the diversity of your staff, leadership and board reflect the diversity of your members?

Taking time to reflect on these questions is the necessary starting point to inform how to move forward. By asking the right questions, we are better able to assess where we are at, analyze our options, and develop our strategy and approach. Once we have done the work, then it is time to implement and establish our dashboard and measurements of success.