Rapid Response: What campus protests mean for business, w/Ken Frazier and Ken Chenault
May 21, 2024
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Ken Frazier, former CEO of Merck, advocates for health equity and social responsibility, while Ken Chenault, ex-CEO of American Express, champions diversity in business. They discuss how campus protests influence corporate leadership, urging CEOs to navigate societal tensions carefully. The duo emphasizes the vital role of DEI initiatives and the necessity of inclusive practices to reflect diverse perspectives. They also highlight the importance of civil discourse on contentious issues, particularly in today's polarized environment, advocating for courageous leadership amidst uncertainty.
CEOs must be prepared to take a stand on societal issues despite potential backlash.
Promoting diversity and inclusive practices in business is essential for fostering a fair and engaging work environment.
Deep dives
CEOs and Speaking Out on Social Issues
Ken Chanal and Ken Frazier discuss the changing landscape where CEOs are hesitant to speak out due to potential backlash. They emphasize the importance of understanding societal divides, supporting democracy, and being prepared to take a stand when necessary. CEOs are urged to consider under what circumstances they should voice their opinions and engage in meaningful discourse.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Business
The CEOs advocate for diversity, emphasizing the value of inclusive practices in business. They challenge the negative connotations associated with terms like DEI and stress the importance of creating equal opportunities for all individuals. They highlight the need to prioritize talent, fair training, and promotions to foster a diverse and engaging work environment.
Navigating Campus Protests over Israel and Palestine
Ken Chanal and Ken Frazier delve into the challenges faced by universities in handling protests related to Israel and Palestine. They call for civil discourse, understanding different perspectives, and promoting respectful dialogue. They emphasize the importance of universities preparing students to become constructive leaders in society amidst divisive issues.
Amid college campus protests over Palestine and Israel, stark US political divides, and legal challenges to diversity initiatives, business leaders face new pressure on whether to speak out and take action on issues of our time. Ken Frazier, former CEO of Merck, and Ken Chenault, former CEO of American Express, offer their unfiltered advice, as board members of the Harvard Corporation and two of America’s most prominent Black executives. It’s a candid conversation about the most controversial topics in American business, from DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) to January 6th.
The pair collaborate at the venture capital firm, General Catalyst. Ken Chenault is the Chairman and a Managing Director, while Ken Frazier is the firm’s Chairman of Health Assurance initiatives.