July 12, 2024

Navigating the Backlash Against DEIB 

By: Center For Accounting Transformation / podcast
Image

In latest ARC, Jina Etienne, CPA, discusses humanizing the accounting profession and why bravery and ideation are keys to transformation.  

In the latest episode of Accounting ARC, host Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect of the Center for Accounting Transformation, welcomes Jina Etienne, a seasoned CPA and Certified Diversity Executive, to discuss her transformative journey in the accounting profession. Etienne, who now focuses on building inclusive cultures within accounting firms, shares her insights on the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace. 

Etienne begins by explaining her transition from a traditional CPA role to her current position. “I still think of myself as a recovering CPA,” she says, reflecting on her 20-plus years in practice. Today, she works with accounting firms to create environments where all employees feel safe and valued. Etienne emphasizes the importance of psychological safety and intentionality in fostering inclusive cultures. 

One of the key points Etienne makes is the need to decouple the terms diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. “Diversity is about the numbers,” she explains, referring to the demographic representation within an organization. Equity, on the other hand, is about the tools, resources, and environment needed to ensure everyone can be successful. Inclusion involves creating space for open and respectful engagement, while belonging reflects an individual’s experience within the organization. 

Etienne also challenges the stereotype of accountants being solely number-focused. “Accounting isn’t math,” she asserts. “Our work tells stories.” She explains how tax returns, for instance, reveal the personal and financial journeys of clients. This storytelling aspect of accounting is often overlooked but is crucial in understanding the broader impact of the profession. 

The conversation then shifts to the current backlash against DEIB efforts. Etienne acknowledges that the language used in these discussions can sometimes feel divisive. However, she stresses that the goal is to understand and improve the experiences of all employees, not just minority groups. “I want to know what it feels like for all of us to work here,” she says, highlighting the universal importance of this work. 

Check out the latest episode of the Accounting ARC Podcast on the Center’s YouTube channel. 

Don’t miss an episode. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE below:

 

 

Share This Article