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Blue Shield Is Fostering Belonging and Uniting Against Hate

Director Amber Bundy-Davis shares best practices for combating hate and promoting inclusion at work and in the community.
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Amber Bundy-Davis (center) at the United Against Hate summit

by Laine Himmelmann

Hate crimes are on the rise across the United States, according to the FBI’s most recent report. California is no exception, with hate crimes nearly doubling from 2019 to 2023, including increases in anti-LGBTQ+, antisemitic, Islamophobic and race-related attacks.

At the end of September, the Commonwealth Club World Affairs and the California Civil Rights Department convened community leaders and elected officials at a half-day summit in San Francisco to discuss solutions and opportunities for collaboration. Sponsored by Blue Shield of California, the summit was broadcast on the Michelle Meow show (click here to watch videos from the event).

Blue Shield Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Amber Bundy-Davis participated in a panel about building cross-cultural coalitions. Joining panelists from Oasis Legal Services, Equality California, the San Francisco Interfaith Council, and Disability Rights of California, Bundy-Davis shared advice for taking action against hate, by fostering inclusion in both workplace and community.

“During these unprecedented global times, it’s more important than ever that we work together to promote inclusion and combat hate,” she said. Bundy-Davis emphasizes proactive measures in the workplace, and beyond, to counter hate:

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Amber Bundy-Davis, Blue Shield of California - photo credit Peopletography

Educate yourself and encourage open dialogue. 

Hate is often fueled by fear and misinformation or lack of exposure. Take advantage of learning opportunities that challenge implicit bias and provide greater education around diverse cultures and marginalized voices. At Blue Shield, learning courses such as "Foundations of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion" are open to all employees, and 85% of people leaders participated in "Inclusive Leadership" courses last year. Fostering open discussions, having uncomfortable conversations, sharing personal stories and providing opportunities for interaction helps break down stereotypes and promotes inclusion.

Do not stand on the sidelines when it comes to standing against hate.

Organizations and individuals all have a role when it comes to uniting against hate and we are stronger when we work together. Check out Not in Our Town and United Against Hate Week to get involved. In your workplace, report incidents you see or experience immediately to HR or your supervisor, explore mental health resources, and consider getting involved in Employee Resource Groups and other employee engagement opportunities that promote belonging and inclusion. At Blue Shield of California, 44% of employees belong to an Employee Resource Group.

If you see or experience hate, report it.

Report workplace incidents to HR and your supervisor. Public reports can be made online through California vs Hate at any time in 15 languages, or by calling (833) 866-4283 or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Outside of those hours, callers can leave a voicemail, or call 211 to report a hate incident and seek support from a professional trained in culturally competent communication and trauma-informed practices. California vs Hate is not affiliated with law enforcement, and you can report anonymously.

“We must all do our part to cultivate a culture of inclusion and belonging,” said Bundy-Davis. “As one of California’s larger employers with over 7,000 employees, it makes me proud to empower changemakers who amplify human dignity and harmony — but the work is not done and may never be done. It takes all of us, continually learning and joining together to combat hate, and to be the change we wish to see for our communities and one another.”

Blue Shield of California is deeply committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and was recently awarded the #1 Top Regional Company by Fair360, formerly known as DiversityInc — a national benchmark for workplace equity, fairness and inclusion. You can learn more about Blue Shield’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion here.