In a captivating episode of “Equity in Focus,” Kevin E. Hooks sits down with Tyronne Stoudemire, the senior vice president of Global Diversity Equity & Inclusion for Hyatt Hotels Corporation. With a career dedicated to advancing diversity and inclusion, Stoudemire has become a globally recognized executive and highly sought-after speaker, consulting with numerous Fortune 100 clients on diversity strategy.
“Who am I?” Stoudemire muses, reflecting on his origins. Born and raised in Detroit, a city rich with cultural history and musical legends, Stoudemire’s early life was shaped by the civil rights movement. His family’s move from the inner city to the suburbs exposed him to the challenges and opportunities of integration. “I am a Black man, a husband, a father,” he states proudly. His upbringing in a diverse environment prepared him for his current role at Hyatt Hotel Corporation, where he works to ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of the company’s mission.
“Aha” moments and early influences
Stoudemire’s commitment to DEI work was sparked by numerous “Aha” moments throughout his career. He recounts an experience at Hewitt Associates, where he was one of the few Black managers. A poignant moment occurred when Juanita Robinson Brown invited him to speak to a group of Black colleagues. The stereotypical scene he encountered made him realize the need for deeper cultural understanding beyond superficial celebrations.
“I believe diversity groups should be designed by the minority for the majority,” Stoudemire explains. His approach emphasizes the importance of moving beyond compliance to genuine representation and inclusion. This philosophy has guided his work and shaped his strategies for creating inclusive environments in various industries.
Leveraging differences and cultural competence
Stoudemire’s ability to navigate different communities effectively stems from his diverse experiences growing up and working globally. His first global assignment in India, where he was mistaken for being Indian, opened doors to new leadership opportunities. These experiences taught him to leverage his differences and understand the value of diverse perspectives.
“My parents taught me to give, to reach back, and to help others,” he shares. This ethos of care and inclusivity is central to his DEI work. Stoudemire’s data-driven approach and love for analytics have helped him thrive in various roles. He emphasizes the need for cultural competence and cross-cultural communication to build effective DEI strategies.
Workforce, workplace, and marketplace: The pillars of DEI
Stoudemire’s book, “Diversity Done Right,” outlines his comprehensive approach to DEI, focusing on the workforce, workplace, and marketplace. These pillars have been the foundation of his work since the 1980s and remain relevant today. He highlights the ongoing challenges and the need for sustainable DEI efforts, especially in light of recent social justice movements.
“The murder of George Floyd highlighted the need for education, housing, and mental health support,” Stoudemire notes. He stresses the importance of moving beyond tokenism and superficial gestures to address systemic biases and create meaningful change. His book provides tools and strategies for organizations to develop cultural competence and manage bias effectively.
The Future of DEI: Challenges and Opportunities
In the face of well-funded opposition and assaults on DEI practitioners, Stoudemire remains optimistic. He emphasizes the importance of diverse teams in solving problems and driving innovation. “78% of the world is Black and brown,” he points out, highlighting the demographic shifts that necessitate a diverse workforce.
Stoudemire’s vision for the future of DEI involves continued education, systemic change, and a commitment to love and inclusivity. His call to action is clear: “The more we care for each other, the better we solve issues and progress together.”
Tyronne Stoudemire’s insights and experiences offer a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in today’s world. His journey and work serve as an inspiration for individuals and organizations committed to making a difference. As Kevin E. Hooks concludes the conversation, he urges listeners to prioritize equity in their daily lives and professional endeavors.
Let’s continue these crucial conversations and strive for a more inclusive and equitable society. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
To learn more about Tyronne Stoudemire’s work and his book, “Diversity Done Right,” visit his website www.tyronnestoudemire.com and follow him on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
AI assisted in summarizing this episode of Equity in Focus.
