Vince Bartozzi, Co-Founder and CEO - Stakes MFG

I was lucky enough to grow up in a very inclusive environment, surrounded by all types of people (varying socio-economic backgrounds, colors, religions, sexual orientations, expressions, and ability levels). While not specific to inclusivity, I learned to respect and treath humans the way I want to be treated. It’s something I work on daily. It’s difficult to connect with someone in a middle school lunchroom who doesn’t look, sound, or act like you. Later, as adults, we can’t expect to change that mindset overnight. That’s what makes this book so important.

As I’ve grown as an entrepreneur and businessperson, inclusivity has been integral to my work and daily life. Even when it’s not popular or easy, it’s always the right thing to do. It has a huge impact on the person’s quality of life as well as their company, co-workers, friends, and family.

As leaders in our industry, it’s our responsibility to educate and provide tools for people who have not been raised in an inclusive environment or have not worked with someone who doesn’t look, think, and work the same way they do. It can take time and be intimidating, scary, and uncomfortable, but a community that values and upholds inclusive principles will always flourish and succeed above those who do not value inclusivity, plain and simple.