Employee benefit trends in 2021: Diversity, equity and inclusion

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The month of December is a time of reflection, where we look back at the events of the past year as well as forward to what we can expect in the year to come. Though no one likely would have predicted the chaos of 2020, from it, we can see a few key themes that will have a long-lasting impact on the nature of work and employee benefits.

As industry experts put on their fortune-tellers’ hats to prognosticate, a few key themes emerged. First among them: the growing emphasis among employers on fostering diversity, equity and inclusion. This is no doubt in large part a response to protests and social justice movements following the death of George Floyd and others, but this is just one driving force behind the growing interest in DEI. We have also seen more people of color in high-profile positions (such as vice president-elect Kamala Harris) serving as role models and advocates for change. Adding to that has been an increased focus on ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance) policies among corporate boards.