NDILC Responds to Systemic
Racism & Sexism
The NAWRB Diversity & Inclusion Leadership Council (NDILC) is united against racism, racial discrimination and bias, sexism, and the ways in which race and gender intersect to impact of lived experiences of women of color. The NDILC understands the importance of this time for the progression of racial and social justice, and together share their wisdom for how leaders can do better to support diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, and in the real estate and housing ecosystem. Below are personal reflections from some of the NDILC Members.
Tami Bonnell
CEO of EXIT Realty Corp. Intl. “Tami Bonnell recorded the following video https://youtu.be/aXwQX37L-cE on working together during this time to combat racism and promote equality and inclusion. Her company released the following statement: We at EXIT Realty stand in unity with you. We hear you. We would like to express our deepest sympathies to all the individuals and families affected by the pain that is racism. Our neighbors in the communities where we work and live across Canada and the United States should feel safe and free from discrimination. Fair housing, equality and inclusion are among our core values. We ask that you listen, learn, and work with others to be a part of the solution. Be a leader in your community and promote equality, inclusion, and acceptance. #togetherwearebetter We are here to talk. Please feel free to reach out to us at exit@exitrealty.com”
Desirée Patno
CEO & President of NAWRB Chairwoman of NDILC “The protests happening now are the result of people voicing their outrage against racial injustice that has occurred unchecked for centuries. History is demanding to be heard and we need to answer the call by educating ourselves in how systemic racism has influenced our society. Only by educating ourselves about the mistakes of our past will we be able to create a more equitable future. We teach our children to be better than us, by passing down the legacies, our mistakes, and future paths so they grow and advance for the greater good. We need to have open discussions between lawmakers and citizens about physical commemorations of our history and decide how to move forward, together. We must listen to the stories of the unheard. As I watch the various news channels and media outlets covering the stories of the multiple inequalities as history repeats itself time and time again, I find myself yearning to hear the depth of each of the stories to make sure they are not lost in the mix. We need to discuss accountability without polarization or fear of speaking up.
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