Celebrating Diversity in the Year of the Rabbit
Lunar New Year | Chinese New Year | January 22, 2023
Leading the recruitment for non-production roles in Mainland China, I work with a diverse group of people with different backgrounds, heritages and experiences every day. During this time, I’ve learned the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and I work to embed it into every facet of Jabil. Sharing best practices with my team; holding my colleagues accountable through reviewing and tracking DEI goals; and conducting DEI training sessions are just a few ways that I’ve contributed to a more diverse, equitable and inclusive Jabil.
An Inclusive New Year
As part of my work with DEI, I’ve learned to appreciate the differences and innovation that diversity can bring to any environment. One of my favorite examples of this variation is the celebration of the Lunar New Year. Throughout my work with the 56 different ethnic groups in Mainland China, I have seen a vast array of practices and celebrations to observe the holiday.
Through my personal experience, my family has its own ways of celebrating. During Chúxī, the last day of the lunar year, I participate in a family reunion dinner, exchange money to promote prosperity and watch the Spring Festival Gala with my family. The next morning, the younger generation in my family get up early to greet my elders and wish them longevity and health, while the elders give monetary gifts to usher in a year of luck and peace. Personally, my favorite part of the holiday is setting off firecrackers to bring light and joy to my area.
I believe that the Lunar New Year is one of the most inclusive holidays. I’ve seen many diverse ethnicities, nationalities and demographics share their own, unique ways of celebrating the holidays. In fact, during this holiday, a local organization, that focuses on improving the lives of people with disabilities, brings Spring Festival wishes to people with disabilities, making sure that no matter who you are, you can join in on the festivities.
Approaching DEI as a Rabbit
According to the Chinese Zodiac, the rabbit is a symbol of caution, positivity, stability and kindness; and we can approach our work and our commitment to DEI with the same values.
To be an effective advocate, we must remain cautious while dealing with our internal biases. Recognizing and mitigating our initial assumptions about people are an essential step to being as inclusive as possible.
Embracing a positive mindset is important while championing DEI in our workplaces. By leading with passion and commitment to our people, we can work toward creating a sense of belonging for all.
Stability is necessary to make significant changes to the culture of a workplace. Remaining consistent in being the change we wish to see will enable others to follow by example. Continuously pushing for DEI will eventually show results, even if they don’t show up overnight.
We must continue to be kind, not only to others around us, but to ourselves. Sometimes, we will make a mistake, but we shouldn’t be too critical of ourselves. Learn from your errors, admit to them and continue to be the best version of yourself.
Together, we can use these lessons the Year of the Rabbit teaches us to continue the important work of creating a more diverse, equitable and inclusive culture.
