Navigating Fashion’s DEI Setbacks and Charting a Path Forward With RaiseFashion

In a recent panel discussion hosted at The Standard, East Village, industry leaders came together to address the challenges faced by the fashion industry in upholding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments. Felita Harris, RaiseFashion’s executive director and co-founder, Rachel Scott, founder and creative director of Diotima, and Mercy Amankwe, senior director of brand marketing and partnerships at Standard International, engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with BoF’s Shenel Wickramaratne. The discussion revolved around the importance of empowering underrepresented talent and driving meaningful change in the face of setbacks in the industry’s DEI efforts.

The fashion industry has long grappled with issues of diversity and inclusion, with many companies making public commitments to address these challenges. However, recent events have highlighted the persistent gaps and shortcomings in these efforts, leading to a sense of disillusionment among marginalized communities and advocates for change. Against this backdrop, the panelists shared insights on how organizations can navigate setbacks and chart a path forward towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Felita Harris, a seasoned leader in the fashion industry, emphasized the need for companies to move beyond tokenistic gestures towards genuine empowerment of underrepresented talent. She highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds to not only enter the industry but also thrive and advance in their careers. Harris underscored the role of organizations like RaiseFashion in providing support, mentorship, and resources to emerging talents, thereby fostering a more inclusive ecosystem.

Rachel Scott, known for her innovative approach to design and storytelling at Diotima, brought a creative perspective to the discussion. She spoke about the power of representation in fashion and the ability of brands to challenge conventional norms through their creative expression. Scott emphasized the need for brands to authentically engage with diverse narratives and perspectives, moving away from surface-level diversity towards a more profound commitment to inclusivity and social impact.

Mercy Amankwe, with her extensive experience in brand marketing and partnerships, shed light on the importance of aligning DEI efforts with broader business strategies. She highlighted the business case for diversity, citing studies that demonstrate the positive impact of inclusive practices on innovation, employee engagement, and financial performance. Amankwe stressed the need for companies to embed DEI considerations into their core operations, rather than treating them as standalone initiatives.

As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that while the fashion industry has faced setbacks in its DEI journey, there is also a growing sense of determination to effect meaningful change. The panelists agreed that progress requires a multi-faceted approach that combines internal policy changes, external partnerships, and industry-wide advocacy. By collaborating and sharing best practices, organizations can learn from each other’s experiences and collectively drive towards a more equitable and diverse future.

In conclusion, the panel discussion at The Standard, East Village served as a reminder of the work that lies ahead for the fashion industry in upholding its DEI commitments. By listening to the voices of leaders like Felita Harris, Rachel Scott, and Mercy Amankwe, companies can gain valuable insights into how to navigate challenges, empower underrepresented talent, and chart a path forward towards a more inclusive and equitable industry.

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