Why is the role of men so important for positive change on diversity and inclusion?
This is a common question in debates about how to improve diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the finance sector. As the world celebrates International Men’s Day on 19 November, it’s also an important talking point for members of the Association of International Life Offices (Ailo), the cross-border industry’s trade body.
The association is supporting the awareness day as part of its ongoing D&I campaign which aims to set an example in the life industry for other sectors to follow.
In the context of D&I initiatives, focusing on the role of men can seem counterintuitive at first glance, writes Vicki Hotchkiss, head of talent and organisation development at Canada Life and chair of Ailo’s diversity and inclusion committee.
But just as attitudes towards gender, race and sexuality are evolving, so are attitudes towards masculinity.
For Hotchkiss and Ailo, that’s the main reason conversations about the changing role of men at work, and in society generally, are vitally important if we are to create truly diverse, inclusive, working environments.
Gender imbalance
“I’ve been asked many times whether Ailo should mark International Men’s Day,” she said: “The question is often from the point of view that if Ailo’s ambition is to bring gender equity, then surely our focus would be better spent elsewhere?
“Such questions are legitimate, and I understand the emotions behind them. Indeed, it is a fact that in order to change direction it is necessary to pull harder on one side than the other. Ailo and our member organisations believe that treating all people equally, and with respect, is morally and ethically the right thing to do.
“However, we also recognise that it is in the commercial interest of our members, and to the economic advantage of their geographical locations, to correct gender biases, by providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of gender. Within the life sector, I see that positive progress is being made to broaden diversity within businesses, but we still have much more to do.”
The reality is that the majority of key decision-making roles, and roles with higher financial value attached, are still predominately held by men. Many companies have already recognised this, and the commercial limitations this imbalance brings.
It’s in this context that a significant majority of men are already asking questions about how they can positively engage in the process. This is the crucial point which illustrates why awareness campaigns such as International Men’s Day are relevant and helpful.
“Men who have positive attitudes towards D&I want to know how can they use the influence and responsibilities of their positions to make more progress on the road to equity. From a life sector perspective, Ailo believes men providing allyship, and positively casting shadows and leading their organisations by example, as being among the many reasons why it is important to celebrate International Men’s Day.”
‘Positive contribution’
Ailo chair John McNamara said that 19 November is, indeed, an important date on the calendar in the context of the organisation’s D&I visibility campaign. “As we continue to strive for increased diversity across our industry, it is important not to forget the positive contribution that men can bring to their community and society, their families and their organisations through leading by example.
“That’s why International Men’s Day is an important event which our members are proud to support as part of our broader D&I strategy which aims to put Ailo at the forefront of positive change by encouraging the life sector to set an example for others to follow.”
Some Ailo members are rolling out initiatives to celebrate International Men’s Day and highlight the role men can play to push D&I forward:
- Canada Life will be publishing a blog about what masculinity means to modern men, and using that to open up conversations on male mental health and wellbeing. Employees will be focusing on the theme of ‘modern masculinity’ by creating opportunities for all colleagues to discuss the role that men play in today’s society.
- Activities at M&G will include a workshop on ‘modern masculinity and the importance of empathy’ to encourage people to reach outside their comfort zones.
- Quilter International will be organising events around the theme of this year’s International Men’s Day which is ‘better relations between men and women’. Activities will include encouraging male colleagues to share their personal experiences, and fundraising for Isle Listen which is an early intervention positive mental health initiative.
This article was written for International Adviser by Vicki Hotchkiss, head of talent and organisation development at Canada Life and chair of Ailo’s diversity and inclusion committee.
