How can Global Mobility support the meaning and spirit of Juneteenth, everyday?

The newest federal holiday, Juneteenth National Independence Day, celebrates the end of slavery and involuntary relocation in the United States. In 2024, all 50 states and the District of Columbia will legally recognize Juneteenth as a public holiday, with state government offices closed and state workers having a paid day off.

As HR and mobility programs seek to improve the support they provide to all employees, let's consider what corporate relocation programs can do to better support the diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) of Black employees within companies and make them feel more cared for. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Pre-decision Support: Offer personalized support and resources to Black employees before they make a relocation decision. This may include information about the new location's racial demographics, cultural activities, community organizations, and resources for Black professionals.
2. Personalized Relocation Assistance: Provide comprehensive and flexible relocation assistance that addresses the unique needs and challenges faced by Black employees. Offer more choice to avoid exception requests, and partner with relocation services experienced in working with diverse populations.
3. Cultural Integration: Assist Black employees in integrating into their new work and community environments. Offer cultural competency training, encourage employee resource groups, and incorporate those resources into mobility program documentation.
4. Community Connections: Facilitate connections between Black employees and local community organizations or Black professional networks to help build social support systems and engagement.
5. Diverse Mobility Team: Promote diversity within the global mobility and HR function, including at the executive and management levels.
6. Employee Feedback Mechanisms: Establish feedback mechanisms for Black employees to express concerns, provide suggestions, and report instances of bias or discrimination.
7. Ongoing Support: Ensure that support and resources are available to Black employees throughout their relocation process and beyond, including counseling, career development, and mentoring.
8. Evaluation and Improvement: Create a task force to regularly assess the effectiveness of the relocation program in supporting Black employees and address any gaps or areas for improvement.

By implementing these strategies, corporate relocation programs can demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and create an environment where Black employees feel valued, supported, and cared for.

Per this article in USA Today,  Dr. Tim Goler, a professor of urban affairs and sociology courses and director of research for the Center for African American Public Policy at Norfolk State University shares, “I think as we observe Juneteenth, it's important to focus on the education, reflection, the community engagement aspect and really ensure that the day remains of a pungent reminder of our continued and enduring fight for freedom and justice”. Mobility teams can reflect on current policy and practice to consider whether their programs and policies promote and support DEIB for Black employees.

Here are some additional things to consider as you ponder how best to celebrate Juneteenth within your company and mobility programs.