10. Neurodiversity
Let’s start with a diverse community that seemingly connects with everyone: The neurodiverse community. All of us know someone on the spectrum or someone who has been classified with intellectual and developmental disabilities. (And this doesn’t count the large number who have not been identified.)
The question: What are we doing to help?
Hats off to state Sen. Andrew Zwicker (D-Hillsborough), who not only is working to increase neurodiversity hiring, but understands this is not a charitable endeavor, but an area where the state can benefit economically. Hiring those on the spectrum continues to be an aim for many — a good thing, since the unemployment rate can hover around 80%. MTS Logistics, with support from Spectrum Works, is showing how it can be done.
Thanks must be given to groups providing key services. Princeton-based Community Options was named the largest nonprofit organization to solely support IDD. The Arc of New Jersey, which does outstanding work, recently named a new executive director — as did the New Jersey Association of Community Providers. (And credit outgoing head Valerie Sellers for honestly detailing the challenges her members face.)
Finally, a mention of those who are making special accommodations for customers. Sports Illustrated Stadium, American Dream and Newark Liberty International Airport are leading that charge.
9. Veterans
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Will having a veteran serving as governor help other veterans in the state? The head of the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber sure thinks so. Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill figures to be a big supporter of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, created by her predecessor.
Of course, so many others help, too. A hat tip to Braven Health for its commitment to health care for veterans. And to groups building housing for veterans. Most of all, thanks to programs such as PGA Hope, which helps veterans struggling from their service find their way.
8. Women
Yes, women make up 51% of the population. But they certainly aren’t getting 51% of the opportunity in the workplace.
Executive Women of New Jersey, in releasing its biennial report, showed workplace equality is not (anywhere close to) where it should be. That’s why it’s keeping up the fight — and providing ways for the work world to change.
And the bottom line clearly shows it’s the right (financial) thing to do, too. There are no better examples of offering gender opportunity than honoring the women who are inspirational to the next generation.
7. Antisemitism
Sherrill spoke strongly on antisemitism during the campaign: “As governor, I will certainly address this appalling surge of antisemitic incidents head on and work to ensure that every business owner in our state has a fair shot. I vow to be an ally in the Governor’s Office,” she said.
Doing so is no easy task. While episodes of antisemitism are on the rise, we must never forget the past. The Chhange Center is passionately working to educate the next generation about the Holocaust and other examples of genocide.
6. LGBTQ+
Two steps forward, one step back. The efforts to increase opportunities for and acceptance of LGBTQ+ businesses continues to be a challenge. To be clear, New Jersey is a leader in this effort for business. And credit Gus Penaranda for launching the Evolvere NJ Unity Chamber after a former effort collapsed. A new LGBTQ+ bar association has started, too.
Many groups are doing many things, which leads to a general reminder: Not all LGBTQ+ business owners are the same — and shouldn’t be treated as such.
5. Hispanics
Here is a simple (and stunningly accurate) sentence: The Hispanic business community in New Jersey is far bigger and impactful than you realize.
But just spouting numbers isn’t enough. More needs to be done to educate the state about the impact — something that is being done in K-12 schools and at places such as the Unanue Latino Institute at Seton Hall University.
The state is working to do its part. As are numerous businesses, whether it be an agency that helps companies connect to the community — or an airline working to connect in every possible way.
BINJE worked to spread the word, too: We honored the top Hispanic Business Leaders at an event in the fall, honoring our No. 1 choice, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey’s Uli Diaz, a transformative leader in New Jersey City University’s Andrés Acebo and many others.
4. India
India always has been a key economic partner for New Jersey. Outgoing Choose New Jersey CEO Wes Mathews explained why.
The mission trips Gov. Phil Murphy and Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way made to India certainly had impact, both in business and higher education connections.
Of course, nothing shows impact as well as ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Three recent events at life science companies certainly showed that.
3. Mexico
No country has a greater connection to New Jersey than Mexico, a fact that was celebrated in two big ways.
In the spring, the American Mexican Regional Chamber of Commerce was created. Its impact was immediate. When it was commenting on key issues such as tariffs, it was helping other states/regions create chambers of their own.
The unique relationship was celebrated in the fall, when the governor made his final mission trip to Mexico City — the impact of which will be felt for many years to come.
2. Disparity study
Equal opportunity? Not in state contracts. Not even close. The shameful disparity study clearly spelled that out. It was a study that took six years to complete (even Gov. Phil Murphy acknowledged it took too long) and no real action has been taken because of it.
To be fair, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority made additional benefits available on grants for those increasing hiring practices — or moving to underserved communities — but those incentives have not moved the needle as much as many would like.
The disparity study seemingly showed how the Black business community was hurt as much as any other. Fortunately, many Black leaders and business owners are not waiting for action, they are taking it.
John Harmon is leading the charge at the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, working to ensure the Black vote isn’t taken for granted while pointing out loopholes where Black-owned businesses are being hurt. Adenah Bayoh is a leader in building communities of affordable housing.
The battle continues. As key leaders will point out, it didn’t start when George Floyd’s death shocked the nation — and it didn’t end when changes enacted after his death were slowly dismantled.
1. State of DEI
So, where do we stand after all this? There are challenges, yes. But, unlike many other areas, New Jersey is standing up for diversity, equity and inclusion principles, saluting companies that are fighting the good fight — and explaining to others why they should do so.
As always, the No. 1 argument for the business community is this: DEI is good for the bottom line. Look no further than the Prudential Center, whose wide variety of acts truly shows we are better — and happier — when we come together.
