Discovering Unexpected Lessons in Diversity

Each year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is not just a seasonal highlight but a moment of pure, unadulterated joy for me. For those few captivating hours, with a mimosa in hand, I witness the parade’s enchanting display. This year, however, my fascination extended beyond the spectacle. I observed how the parade served not just as a celebration but as a profound lesson in diversity and inclusion.

In 2023, the parade did more than entertain; it demonstrated the powerful role media plays in shaping our perception of the world. As a prominent media event, it underscored the responsibility of media platforms to foster inclusivity. This vivid representation of diverse cultures and communities seamlessly integrated into the parade highlighted how inclusivity enhances vibrancy and meaning in any form of media.

The parade’s transformation into a masterclass of inclusion was a revelation. It showed that resources for learning about engagement and inclusivity are not limited to formal settings like boardrooms or seminars. Instead, they are woven into the fabric of our everyday experiences, available in the most unexpected places and teaching us through the most engaging narratives.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Shawn Outler, Macy’s Chief Diversity Officer. Her influence, or the broader commitment to diversity that she has helped cultivate within the organization, was clearly reflected in the parade. It was a commendable showcase of a diverse and inclusive society. This event, in all its colorful and joyous grandeur, was a powerful reminder to me, and undoubtedly to many others, of the richness and beauty of our world’s diverse tapestry of people, cultures, and stories. Media, in its most engaging and public forms, carries the responsibility and opportunity to reflect and celebrate this diversity.

Ten Ways The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Showcased Inclusion

• Diverse Music: The parade was a global musical journey, featuring everything from Country to K-pop and Broadway to R&B. En Vogue’s “Free Your Mind” performance echoed the event’s inclusive spirit.

• Disability Representation: The Broadway show “How to Dance in Ohio,” spotlighting twelve autistic actors, and Al Roker’s triumphant return post-health challenges, underscored the value of making accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

• Breaking Taboos: The Veozah commercial addressed menopause openly, and Dove’s campaign featuring a woman with a cesarean scar challenged conventional beauty norms.

• Redefining Leading Roles: “SHUCKED” disrupted typical leading roles, showcasing diverse beauty standards and advocating for broader representation.

• Women Beyond Beauty: Highlighting Miss America 2023, Grace Stanke, a nuclear engineering student, the parade celebrated women’s achievements in STEM fields.

• Challenging Traditions: Innovative renditions of classic pieces like the Hip Hop Nutcracker and a jazz version of the same by Fishers High School Marching Band showcased cultural fusion.

• Honoring Native American Heritage: The Wampanoag Tribe’s “People of First Light” float paid homage to Native American cultures.

• Global Cultures Celebrated: Performances by Cornell Bhangra and multicultural commercials from Microsoft and Kroger underscored global inclusivity.

• Family Differences Embraced: The commercial for TV show “Extended Family” highlighted evolving family dynamics, including divorce and interracial partnerships.

• Age Embraced: The Tap Dancing Christmas Trees and Cher’s vibrant presence celebrated age diversity.

• Women of Color Spotlighted: The Radio City Rockettes’ growing diversity, including women of color, marked a significant shift in representation.  I loved seeing  Korean-American actress Ashley Park on the Sesame Street float and who knew Mrs. Claus was a black woman? Cheryl Lee-Ralph did, what a way to end the parade.

What We Can Learn About Engagement and Inclusion from the Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade serves as a prime example for companies on how to engage and include diverse stakeholder groups:

• Diversity as a Business Strategy: Showcasing a wide range of cultures and perspectives can broaden a company’s appeal and resonate with a diverse customer base.

• Inclusion in Marketing: Inclusive marketing, as seen in the parade’s commercials and float designs, can create a more profound connection with various demographic groups.

• Community Engagement: Actively involving different community groups, as demonstrated by the parade’s diverse performances, enhances brand image and fosters a sense of community.

What Leaders Can Learn

• Embrace Diversity in Decision-Making: Leaders should incorporate diverse perspectives in their decision-making processes to foster inclusivity and innovation.

• Lead with Empathy: Understanding and acknowledging the diverse needs and backgrounds of employees and stakeholders is crucial for effective leadership.

• Champion Inclusive Practices: Actively promoting and implementing inclusive practices within the organization can create a welcoming and productive environment.

Lessons for Inclusive Colleagues

• Cultivate an Inclusive Mindset: Colleagues should strive to understand and appreciate the diverse backgrounds and experiences of their peers.

• Support Inclusive Initiatives: Actively participating in and supporting workplace diversity initiatives can contribute to a more inclusive culture.

• Encourage Diverse Voices: Ensure that all team members have the opportunity to voice their ideas and opinions, fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect.

The 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade masterfully demonstrated how embracing diversity and inclusion can enrich experiences and resonate with a broad audience. From its diverse musical lineup to the inclusion of various cultural and societal narratives, the parade highlighted the importance of celebrating differences. Companies, leaders, and colleagues alike can learn valuable lessons from this event. Emphasizing diversity as a business strategy, leading with empathy, and cultivating an inclusive workplace are just a few of the takeaways that can inspire organizations to embrace and celebrate diversity in their operations.