Warner Music has launched a Global DEI Institute within the company that will serve as "a hub of innovation, learning and action". DEI - in case, like me, you keep forgetting - stands for “diversity, equity and inclusion”. So, basically this is a new unit within the business that will be doing innovation, learning and action around diversity, equity and inclusion.
The new DEI hub follows the major's recent Environmental Social Governance Report - which summarised all the ways it is being a responsible corporate citizen, including around diversity and inclusion - and will be headed up by Dr Maurice A Stinnett, who joined the major last August as its Global Head Of Diversity, Equity And Inclusion.
Says Stinnett: “Warner Music Group is taking a bold step toward inclusion, equity and lasting change by institutionalising this hub of training and innovation. I am THRILLED to partner with some of the most brilliant minds in our industry and culture to further develop our leaders and offer educational opportunities for everyone at WMG".
"As a company", he goes on, "we continue to reflect internally and build the roadmap ahead toward more equity and inclusion, and this Institute will help drive this imperative work. This isn’t a moment we are responding to; this is a commitment that will be baked into the fabric of our company and industry for generations to come".
Adds Warner Music CEO Steve Cooper: “It’s not enough to just acknowledge problematic histories or the resulting discrimination and miseducation that remain in place. We’ve got to actively break them down and build up new, equitable, inclusive environments where all people can belong – and we’ve got to do it together. Enlisting a wide range of experts, thought-leaders, and innovators will help us continuously evolve a culture of education and empowerment for our people, artists, and songwriters around the globe".