Several associations have launched initiatives to raise awareness about diversity and inclusion among their employees and members, with the groups saying the recent Black Lives Matter protests have brought new focus on the issue.

One example: The American Society of Travel Advisors announced June 8 it would require all staff to participate in diversity and inclusion training, which would also be available to members.

"I spent much of last week listening to co-workers describe how the death of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, in the context of other violence and social conditions prevalent for far too long, has affected them," CEO Zane Kirby said in a statement. "Each expressed frustration, fatigue, and sadness. My own expressions of solidarity were appreciated but inadequate. The entire ASTA staff, regardless of race, stands in solidarity with everyone in the African-American community advocating for peaceful change."

In addition, Kirby said the group will continue to be a "a strong financial contributor to pro-business African American members of Congress" and will make social justice a higher priority. ASTA will review proposed bills and then urge members to contact their representatives in Congress to get legislation passed.

"Historically, we have advocated on a narrow path of issues that directly affect our members' businesses. But, guaranteeing equality before the law for all Americans is vital to our social fabric, and therefore our members' businesses," Kirby said.

Other associations also took action. The National Association of Chain Drug Stores announced June 10 it would create a diversity and inclusion council consisting of diversity officers and other representatives from its members companies. It also plans to create a diversity and inclusion team among its staff.

The National Association of Realtors released a 50-minute video on its website with advice for members on how to avoid implicit bias in the daily business interactions.

"We are committed to leading the way on policies that address racial injustice and build communities where people of every color feel safe to pursue their own American Dream," NAR President Vince Malta said in a statement. "This training video is a small part of an ongoing education campaign that will position Realtors to lead in the fight against racial discrimination."

Both Business Roundtable and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have launched new committees to explore the topic of racial injustice and recommend solutions the business community can back. BRT's committee consist of member CEOs while the Chamber's committee is comprised of top executives from state chambers and national associations, including Susan Neely of the American Council of Life Insurers and Matthew Shay of the National Retail Federation.

"At the Chamber, we know what a job means to a family and to a community. We will leverage our expertise and relationships to help develop solutions that will enhance diversity, equity and inclusion in our economic system," U.S. Chamber President Suzanne Clark said in a statement.

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