Paramount Global is taking a proactive stance on inclusion with its fifth annual Inclusion Week, aiming to set an example for the entertainment industry. The week-long event covers a wide range of topics, including the cultural impact of Hip Hop, combating antisemitism, promoting workplace diversity for individuals with visible and invisible disabilities, the success of the Drag Race franchise, and authentic representation of Asian Americans in children’s media.
With over 50 panels, fireside chats, and workshops, Paramount employees worldwide have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and expand their perspectives. The week kicked off with a session featuring Paramount CEO Bob Bakish and Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, moderated by Marva Smalls, Paramount’s executive VP and head of the Office of Global Inclusion. The discussion emphasized the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in driving business results, fostering innovation, and shaping company culture.
Paramount’s commitment to DE&I goes beyond Inclusion Week. The company believes that DE&I should be at the core of its business strategy, leading to systemic change across the media and retail industries. Paramount encourages open dialogue among its staff members, fostering an environment where concerns, views, and information can be freely exchanged.
Inclusion Week originated in the U.K. in 2018 as a response to the government’s call for corporations to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. Since then, it has grown into a global initiative, involving stakeholders, partners, talent, and content creators. The theme of this year’s Inclusion Week is “Be You – Belong,” emphasizing the importance of individuality and belonging in creating an inclusive culture.
To ensure that DE&I remains a year-round focus, Paramount integrates it into its everyday business practices. The company sees the business case for diversity as an integral part of its operations, rather than a separate initiative. Leadership is held accountable for driving change and embedding DE&I into their practices. Additionally, Paramount incorporates key inclusion themes into its programming, such as Content for Change and Heritage Month celebrations.
In summary, Paramount Global’s commitment to inclusion extends beyond Inclusion Week. By fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, the company aims to be a model for the industry. Through ongoing efforts and a steady cadence of initiatives, Paramount strives to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
