DEI Lessons from “The Day the Crayons Quit”

Daily, we are reminded of organizations committing or not committing to their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.  I see that as not a moral imperative, but a strategic advantage. As organizations strive to create environments that celebrate differences and foster a sense of belonging, there are valuable lessons to be learned from unexpected places.

One such source of wisdom is the delightful children's book “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers. This imaginative tale offers insightful perspectives on the importance of valuing diversity and understanding the unique challenges that each individual faces.

In the story, we are introduced to a box of crayons that find themselves at odds with their current situation. Each crayon writes a letter to their owner, Duncan, expressing their unique grievances and desires—a metaphor for the need for acknowledgment and equity. Through these letters, we gain insights into the different dimensions of DEI.

Diversity: Valuing Different Perspectives

Diversity is about acknowledging and valuing the differences that everyone brings to the table. In the book, each crayon color has a distinct perspective. For example, the Red Crayon feels overworked during holidays, drawing Santas and hearts, exclaiming, "You have to listen to me. It’s exhausting being your favorite color for all these holidays!" Meanwhile, the Green Crayon is content, proud to be used for drawing things like trees and has a message of tolerance, saying, "I like my workloads and I wish the others would stop fighting." These colorful characters remind us that while some employees may feel comfortable and aligned with their role, others may seek more balance and recognition.

Equity: Addressing Unique Challenges

Equity involves understanding and addressing the unique challenges that individuals face, ensuring fair treatment and opportunities. The Beige Crayon, for instance, expresses feeling overshadowed by brighter colors. It says, "I’m tired of being called ‘light brown’ or ‘dark tan’ because I am neither." This reflects the subtle yet significant distinction between equality and equity. While equality might suggest treating everyone the same, equity emphasizes giving everyone what they need to succeed, recognizing their unique standing.

Inclusion: Fostering a Sense of Belonging

Inclusion goes beyond diversity and equity by creating a culture where individuals feel valued and integrated into the whole company. The Peach Crayon's story stands out when, after having its wrapper peeled off, it exclaims, "I’m NAKED! And too embarrassed to leave the crayon box!" This speaks to the need for an environment where every contribution is respected and individuals feel personally secure and valued for who they are, not just what they do.

The story of Duncan and his crayons ultimately underscores the importance of open communication and creativity in fostering a truly inclusive work environment. After hearing from his crayons, Duncan embraces their feedback and creates a magnificent picture that includes all the colors in new and unique ways.

By embracing diversity, striving for equity, and fostering inclusion, we can create vibrant, dynamic environments where everyone feels valued and empowered.

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