Unity Through Diversity: A Personal Journey

I remember it like it was yesterday. In 2014, I attended my eldest grand-daughter’s high school graduation, a moment that forever shaped my perspective. As a native third-generation Californian of German and African descent, I noticed for the first time that her graduating class was predominantly minority students. This epiphany opened my eyes to the profound connections we share beyond racial appearances.

My life is a rich tapestry woven from both my German and African heritage. Though my appearance may not reveal this, my cultural background profoundly influences me. My wife, of Portuguese, African, and German descent, and I have embraced these diverse roots, which have shaped our identities and our family's life.

Interestingly, as I reviewed my business clients, I discovered that nearly 65% had German surnames or were of German descent. This realization made me ponder the underlying forces drawing us together. People from diverse backgrounds, who have never met, can still find common ground through shared cultural elements. Common sayings, word inflections, tones, demeanor, and similar beliefs, values, traditions, and practices foster a sense of familiarity and connection. These elements transcend physical differences, creating bonds based on cultural heritage and fostering a comfortable working environment.

Reflecting on history, I remember the Civil Rights marches where people of European descent stood alongside others, advocating for equal rights. The Civil War, which aimed to ensure freedom and equality for all, saw many Americans of European descent sacrificing their lives for this noble cause. Although the journey towards equality has not always been straightforward, it is undeniable that times are changing, roles are shifting, and the face of America is evolving.

Some may view America's past as marred by a racist, colonial system of injustice, seeking to reverse roles. However, if we honestly assess the situation, we see that the progress made by minorities would not have been possible without the support of Americans of European descent. It is not just about how we start but how we finish. This realization struck me profoundly during my granddaughter’s graduation.

Three months later, I joined the California Department of Insurance Diversity Initiative. From the beginning, I faced resistance in my efforts to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the insurance industry. The prevailing sentiment was that I was pushing too hard for minorities and advocating for changes too quickly. In an industry dominated by executives resistant to change, this resistance sometimes made me smile. Their perspective on my work creates the resistance. If they saw what I see, they might see things differently.

Ten years later, I am transitioning into a retirement that I have always dreamed of. I have gone 6 for 6 with my grandchildren attending or graduating college and have seen the rich diversity of all people in their network of friends and associates. I am so proud that they have worked hard to have an inclusive ecosystem and watch all those within flourish.

I wonder if those executives will ever understand why I pressed so hard. It’s because I envision their grandchildren and great-grandchildren in diminished roles of minorities. I worked to secure their right to equality, just as their ancestors worked to secure mine and my grandchildren. This shared effort toward a common goal of equality underscores the enduring bonds that unite us, transcending our diverse backgrounds and appearances. But I do know one thing: this year, we celebrated my youngest grandson’s high school graduation, and his friends and their parents attended. It mirrored California’s population almost exactly. It was at this moment where I had another epiphany: even if the insurance executives could not see what I saw, the rich diversity of people at my grandson's graduation party could.

United by Heritage, Strengthened by Diversity.

My name is Anthony D. Belcher IH, CAC, CHMS

Cal-CRIS operates on a merit based competitive platform; the emphasis is not placed on what you are but on what you do. Cal-CRIS operates much like a credit Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) score. The better the company’s performance, the higher the Cal-CRIS rating.

In order to ensure the full participation of diverse groups, CalCRIS would be given the responsibility of development, verifying applicant information and monitoring the Database Management System. 

The task of inputting the data is the responsibility of the applicant and operates on the honor system. All client data is reviewed by Cal-CRIS using basic verification systems.  However, every year, 33% of the DBMS will be subject to random auditing. False or misleading data inputted by the client will result in heavy point reductions leading to negative ratings for a minimum of 3 years.

   The technology is currently available and has the potential of creating a world class system.  However, the proper criteria is needed to develop a solid omnichannel foundation for D&I and B2B & B2C. 

E&I value scores, input and update, progress, and other tools will provide transparent, actionable, and measurable results.