09 This story highlights how we are making progress against the “Inspire Belonging” goal of the refreshed DEI strategy. “Intersectionality should matter to all of us, since we all have multiple ways to identify,” said Booz Allen Global Business Resource Group (BRG) Lead Hazel Izler. For example, an individual in the firm’s Asian Pacific American Network (APAN) might also identify as a parent, a veteran, a woman, and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. “I can understand how being in that situation might cause some heartburn,” said Izler. “One part of your identity might agree with whatever topic the BRG is engaging with, but the other part might not.” In response to the growing and complex conversations surrounding intersectionality, and in alignment with the “Inspire Belonging” goal of the firmwide diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy and action plan, Booz Allen and its employee BRGs and networks are driving efforts to acknowledge, support, and celebrate intersectional employees and their experiences. Breaking down barriers and connecting communities To encourage people to look through the lens of intersectionality, the BRGs and networks are collaborating to host events that bring various groups of people into the same space. “Intersectional events and initiatives help us understand the privilege we may be holding and how we can be an ally to others,” said Izler. The BRGs and networks have hosted a range of intersectional programs, with more in the works: • The Women’s BRG partnered with the Parents Forum to host an intersectional event about establishing boundaries to create better balance as women and working parents. • The GLOBE+ BRG (the firm’s LGBTQIA+ BRG) hosted an intersectional roundtable with the Indigenous Network to celebrate and learn from employees with both Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ identities. • The GLOBE+ BRG and the African American Network (AAN) hosted an intersectional learning event about the pandemic’s impact on Black LGBTQIA+ individuals. • In May & June, to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, the Disabilities BRG, the Asian Pacific American Network (APAN), and the Behavioral Health Community of Practice hosted an intersectional fireside chat with firm leaders to discuss how employees of all identities can use firm resources to support their mental health. • The Multicultural BRG’s Indigenous Network and AAN recently held an event for employees to hear and learn from Autumn Rose Miskweminanocsqua (Raspberry Star Woman) Williams. Williams spoke about her experience as a Black Indigenous woman and shared her journey of self-discovery from growing up on the Shinnecock Reservation in Southampton, NY to becoming Miss Native American USA in 2017/2018. “I’ve seen an uptick in engagement when we have these intersectional events,” said Izler. “And we’re seeing folks signing up for multiple groups at the same time. There’s a hunger for this kind of programming.” Growing and learning together Though the firm’s BRGs and networks encompass a wide range of identity groups, they are intended to cater to everyone, regardless of their identity. “You don’t need to have a disability to join the Disabilities BRG,” Izler explained. “You may have a parent or spouse with a disability, for instance, or you can join as an ally. The BRGs and networks are open to all. We want to grow and learn together.” Izler also encourages employees to form new groups as they see fit. “There are many more groups beyond the BRGs, like forums for parents and rising leaders. Nobody at the firm will stand in the way of people coming together,” she said. Explore how the firm’s BRGs create community for all. • The part of my identity that I am most aware of on a daily basis is... • The part of my identity that I am the least aware of on a daily basis is... • The part of my identity that was most emphasized or important in my family growing up was... • The part of my identity that I wish I knew more about is... • The part of my identity that I feel is difficult to discuss with others who identify differently is... Source: TheSafeZoneProject.com BOOZ ALLEN HAMILTON