The BWL unconditionally denounces systemic racism—it has no home at the BWL. Instead, we choose to live our motto: Hometown People, being the diverse individuals - employees and customers alike, comprising the rich tapestry of the greater Lansing region; Hometown Power, our combined strength as we promote social justice, together, as one.
Dick Peffley, General Manager
Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The BWL staff and leadership, our governing Board of Commissioners, and the BWL Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee are committed to ensuring an inclusive environment where all individuals experience a sense of belonging, respect and are empowered to be their authentic selves. We are committed to equitable treatment, and elimination of discrimination in all forms. We acknowledge and honor the fundamental value and dignity of all people, including our customers and those with whom we do business, and pledge ourselves to creating and maintaining an environment that respects unique attributes, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
What We Mean by Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
Diversity: All individuals and their unique attributes, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
Equity: Individuals receive fair support and resources they uniquely need to be successful.
Inclusion: All individuals experience a sense of belonging, respect and are empowered to be their authentic selves.
For years, we've been committed to hiring veterans all across our organization. The success and value they bring to our departments and company as a whole is unmatched. We were recently featured in Military Makeover: Operation Career with Montel Williams airing on Lifetime, which highlights veterans who have made positive transitions to civilian life at companies who offer opportunities like the BWL. Check out some of our veterans in action here.
BWL Promotes an Equitable and Inclusive Culture
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Department
Executes BWL’s strategic priorities and ensures alignment with the mission, vision and values.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
Made up of BWL employees who work as strategic partners alongside the DEI Department to foster and maintain a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion at all levels of the organization.
DEI Learning Opportunities for Employees
New Employee Orientation
From their first day of employment, all new hires learn what DEI means to the BWL, why it matters and what they can do to help foster an inclusive culture.
DEI Training
All employees complete four hours of DEI professional development covering biases, microaggressions, generational differences and cultural competence within the first six months of employment.
DEI Orientation for Management
All management participate in learning opportunities that emphasize best practices for inclusive recruitment, hiring and evaluation, and for creating and maintaining an inclusive culture within their departments.
DEI for Emerging Leaders
Participants in BWL's internal Emerging Leaders Academy learn best practices to lead and promote a culture of inclusion.
Current Topics on DEI
All employees can elect to participate in additional learning opportunities on current issues in DEI.
Monthly DEI Resource
The DEI Department publishes monthly resources available for all departments to share in their monthly meetings to inform and engage team members on various diversity topics.
DEI Activities & Events
Employees have opportunities to participate in various activities and events that celebrate diversity.
Community Focus
The BWL sponsors a wide variety of cultural events in the Greater Lansing Region and supports employee volunteerism during these events.
Join Our Team
We're looking for the Next Generation of Power.