You can hardly walk across the street or browse your Facebook page today without being confronted with another opportunity to join a cause. Whether it's supporting LGBTQ rights with the Human Rights Initiative, or protecting reproductive rights, there's no shortage of chances to get involved.
For individuals, joining the cause is easy. It becomes more difficult for companies, many of which make a commitment to staying out of politics. Still, companies are rewarded today for being bold in the face of injustice. If you're a small business owner or big company vice president wondering how to get involved, here are four ways.
1 Support reasonable expressions by employees
As the world debated whether the NFL should step in to stop players like Colin Kaepernick from kneeling during the national anthem, many commended the league for allowing players to peacefully demonstrate for equality. Companies have to walk a tightrope between supporting employees and losing control of the workplace.
It's always best to support employees in their personal causes to the extent it doesn't disrupt corporate operations. You may find that your employees are more productive when you support them.
2 Make bold statements against bigotry and intolerance
Facebook is a great example of a company that's shot back against bigotry. When some unnamed employees posted hateful messages on the company's wall, Mark Zuckerberg released a statement affirming equality and condemning hatred.
Some companies have a difficult time drawing the line between free speech and hate speech as they try to allow employees some room for expression. A good rule of thumb for companies is to encourage opinions that bring more inclusion while preventing speech designed to inflame, divide, and offend.
3 Support community-based initiatives
Companies get to decide where their charitable dollars will go. While many earmark funds for non-controversial charities, companies can show a commitment to social justice by supporting those organizations working on current areas of injustice.
Prison reform, for instance, is an issue that impacts communities as a whole, and companies that give to prison reform charities will reap the benefits of excellent press. As an added bonus, they'll also be improving the communities where they do business.
3 Use money as leverage
The NBA joined with many other businesses in pulling some of its events from North Carolina when the state passed a law thought by many to be hateful toward the transgender community. Companies have shown the ability to bring about change when they're willing to vote with their checkbooks.
4 Don’t buy from them
If you don't like the way a state or other company is doing business, show your disapproval by refusing to work with that state or company. Partner with those businesses that share your values. You'll reap the benefits of better synergy while sending a strong message about your commitment.
Many companies today want to get involved in the social justice movement. They want to do what is right for their communities while supporting their passionate employees.
If you fall in this category, there are plenty of things you can do to ensure your corporate voice is heard. Whether you're a big CEO or just the owner of a small business, you have the power to be a force for good.
