Workplace Transparency

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On the heels of being fired from America's Got Talent, Gabrielle Union spoke about the need for transparency. Recalling her 2013 Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon speech — that she says changed everything for her. Union said, “I led in that room with the absolute truth and it freed me in a way that I have never been freed before.”  Her exit from America's Got Talent, allegedly stemmed from Union reporting on the Toxic Culture behind the scenes.   

"I speak differently. I take my life much more seriously. I take this time [speaking] with the microphone seriously. And I have to tell the truth. In my truth, it freed other people." Gabrielle Union speaks about not always being supportive of others success and not wanting to use her time in the spotlight to "cover us all." Never thinking that speaking the truth can be a catalyst for change. "The truth and transparency can lead to more." 

Opening up a dialogue and a safe space to speak truth and be transparent in the workplace can help change the culture. There are many issues that employees may face – from feeling discriminated against to feeling that they can't speak on situations in fear of the repercussions. Even when it comes to job opportunities, employees can feel discriminated against during the recruitment process.  

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The routine exclusion of people of color in the workplace isn't okay if we accept the fact that as long as they are recruited, we've accomplished Diversity and Inclusion. There is a need for those to use their position or platform to "cover us all," — meaning, those in a position should use their voice or platform to push for change and not be motivated by self promotion. How can we get to a place where we don't stand idly by and accept workplace discrimination or an environment that doesn't uphold a standard for a better workplace? What will be the catalyst for change?

"I was quiet when I should have spoken up. I turned a blind eye to injustice instead of having the courage to stand up for what's right." 

- Gabrielle Union 
(2013 Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon)