Addressing Disparities: A Win for Everyone

​Addressing Disparities: A Win for Everyone

One of the great things about The Richmond Forum is that it always introduces me to new ideas and speakers I may not have encountered before. That was certainly the case on Saturday when author and researcher Richard Reeves posed the question: Are boys and men falling behind?

The short answer is yes. Reeves shared compelling data on how boys are lagging behind in key areas such as education and workforce participation. As I listened, another question came to mind: Why should we care?

To be clear, I do care. But I wondered—does it really matter in the grand scheme of things? And if it does, should I personally do something about it?

Reeves outlined several disparities and proposed solutions to help boys and men succeed. But as I reflected, I realized that this is, at its core, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at work. If we recognize where boys and men face disadvantages and take intentional action to address them, isn’t that the very essence of what DEI stands for?

Likewise, when we focus on the disparities faced by women and girls, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, older adults, and veterans—using intention to close those gaps—isn’t that also the right thing to do?

The takeaway is simple: When we approach equity holistically, ensuring that no group is left behind, society as a whole benefits. Addressing disparities—whether for boys and men or any other group—isn’t about competition. It’s about building a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone.