Inclusion Rider: Definition, Importance, and Impact in DEI
In the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), understanding and addressing Inclusion Rider is crucial. Inclusion Rider is a significant aspect of this discourse, but what exactly does it entail?
Definition:
Inclusion Rider is a contractual clause that actors, artists, and other professionals can add to their agreements to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in hiring practices. This provision ensures that underrepresented groups—such as women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities—receive fair consideration for employment in productions, projects, or teams.
Why Are Inclusion Riders Important?
Inclusion Riders help address systemic biases and promote equal opportunities in workplaces. Key benefits include:
- Ensuring Representation: Encourages a more diverse workforce, particularly in industries with a history of exclusion.
- Enhancing Creativity & Innovation: Diverse teams bring fresh perspectives, leading to more innovative outcomes.
- Improving Brand Reputation: Companies that prioritise DEI attract top talent and gain consumer trust.
- Legal & Ethical Responsibility: Aligns with anti-discrimination laws and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Example:
In 2021, Warner Bros. introduced an inclusion policy inspired by Inclusion Riders, requiring diverse hiring practices for all film and television productions. This policy ensured that historically marginalised groups had equitable access to jobs in the entertainment industry.
How to Implement an Inclusion Rider
Organisations looking to adopt an Inclusion Rider should:
- Define Clear Diversity Targets – Specify hiring goals for underrepresented groups.
- Ensure Accountability – Require progress tracking and regular reporting.
- Collaborate with DEI Experts – Work with consultants to create effective policies.
- Expand Beyond Hiring – Include mentorship and career advancement opportunities for marginalised employees.
Conclusion:
Inclusion Rider is a powerful tool for promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion across industries. By incorporating this clause into contracts, individuals and organisations can actively support fair representation and help build a more inclusive workforce.
References:
Cappiello, J. (2019). The Inclusion Rider: Constitutional Analysis and Practical Application of Demanding Diversity throughout Hollywood. Hofstra Lab. & Emp. LJ, 37, 217. https://heinonline.org/HOL/LandingPage?handle=hein.journals/hlelj37&div=9&id=&page=
Judkis, M., & Merry, S. (2018). What is an inclusion rider? Explaining Frances McDormand’s call to action at the Oscars. The Washington Post. https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA530016377&sid=googleScholar&v=2.1&it=r&linkaccess=abs&issn=01908286&p=AONE&sw=w&userGroupName=anon%7Ef3252afc&aty=open-web-entry
Waldman, E. (2019). Inclusion Riders and Diversity Mandates. Belmont Law Review, 6(2), 7. https://repository.belmont.edu/lawreview/vol6/iss2/7/
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