Adidas has provided a new update to its “Creating Lasting Change Now” commitments, which revolve around diversity, equity and inclusion within the company and across communities. Among the advances highlighted in the factsheet is the launch of a global “Creating a Culture of Inclusion” training program for employees, in which teams are also required to demonstrate their personal commitment on how to create a more inclusive workplace. In addition, the company has strengthened its global Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy. Other initiatives include the launch of a voluntary Inclusion Survey for job candidates in North America, designed to help understand the representation of candidates as they progress through interview processes, and the creation of a company-wide event called Global Day of Inclusion.
In the area of community programs, Adidas is investing $120 million to support and empower Black communities in the U.S. through 2025, in addition to its existing grassroots initiatives. Also for local communities, the company helped found Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition, a program for Black and Latino entrepreneurs who are launching tech, design, healthcare and consumer products/services start-ups. It goes with two competitions for special prizes. Adidas’ community programs are generally focused on increasing access to sport, education and creative pursuits, as well as a holistic sports, academic and social mentoring program called Beyond.
Finally, to ensure accountability and transparency in these commitments, Adidas has launched a Global Committee to Accelerate Inclusion and Equality, which provides regular updates to the board as well as internal communication for all employees on these matters.
The factsheet on Adidas’ progress on its Creating Lasting Change Now commitments is fully accessible online.
