For Pre-Custody Manager Lesa Holloway, Juneteenth isn’t just a powerful reminder of a pivotal date in American history.
“It also encourages us to consider the concept of freedom and the African-American experience in our country,” she said.
At Inspira Financial, where Holloway serves as co-chair of the Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging employee resource group, she has seen the company take great measures to ensure its African-American employees are acknowledged and celebrated on Juneteenth — and all year long. Through her experience with the ERG, she shared that she has contributed her own voice to wider conversations surrounding diversity and watched her peers do the same.
Holloway believes that offering employees the opportunity to share their unique experience isn’t just beneficial for the culture; it opens up greater opportunities to evolve.
“Through these efforts, we aim to empower our employees, providing them with the tools and opportunities needed to succeed and thrive in their careers,” she said.
Built In caught up with Holloway to learn how Inspira Financial empowers its African-American employees.
About Inspira Financial
Founded in 2000, Inspira Financial is guided by its mission: “Simplifying the complex for people and businesses.” The company offers health, wealth, retirement and benefits solutions in an effort to help consumers more effectively plan, save and invest for their futures.
How is Inspira Financial honoring Juneteenth this year?
As a company committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, we recognize the profound significance of Juneteenth, known as America’s second Independence Day. Officially made a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder to all of us of a significant date in American history that we should know and understand. At Inspira Financial, we honor Juneteenth by not only reflecting on its history and meaning today, but also by actively engaging in efforts year-round to promote a more equitable future. Our commitment to DEI is unwavering, and we’re dedicated to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected and heard.
“Our commitment to DEI is unwavering, and we’re dedicated to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected and heard.”
What are some ongoing initiatives that Inspira Financial offers to support and empower African-American employees on Juneteenth and throughout the year?
One of our key initiatives is the DIB ERG, which plays a vital role in our commitment to equity and inclusion. As a member of this ERG, I’ve had the privilege of participating in various committees, serving as an advocate and contributing to the broader conversation about diversity and inclusion within our company. Serving as the co-chair of this group has allowed me to further my development as a leader while ensuring that the unique needs and perspectives of our African-American employees are heard, represented and addressed.
Inspira Financial’s DIB ERG celebrates Juneteenth by encouraging employees across the country to post and share their personal experiences celebrating the holiday. This helps demonstrate the many unique ways that employees honor Juneteenth in their own communities and help educate one another about its history and personal meaning to them.
