The 2024 DCA Diversity Debate - what a night!
On Tuesday 22 October 2024, DCA and major sponsor IAG hosted one of the most anticipated diversity and inclusion events of the year—the 2024 Diversity Debate. Business leaders, industry experts, and entertainers gathered as two outstanding debate teams engaged with this year’s topic: Is polarisation holding diversity and inclusion back?
The affirmative team raised concerns about the increased division seen in today’s public discourse, noting that polarisation often creates barriers to empathy and inclusive action. In contrast, the negative team contended that polarising perspectives can spark meaningful dialogue and drive change, bringing attention to issues that might otherwise be overlooked.
Following the exciting and insightful debate, our audience members voted and crowned the affirmative team as winners of the 2024 Diversity Debate! One thing was unanimous: the work of our members and community as the everyday champions of diversity and inclusion in the workplace is critical.
With support from major sponsor IAG, supporting sponsor Suncorp and associate sponsor Telstra, attendees enjoyed an entertaining night, while dissecting one of the most important issues facing workplaces today.
DCA would like to thank our sponsors, the talented debaters and master of ceremony, as well as all of those who attended the debate and participated in these important discussions that we hope will continue driving diversity and inclusion in Australian workplaces.
We hope to see you next time!
For the affirmative
The affirmative team argued that polarisation deepens divisions and amplifies extreme views, obstructs diversity and inclusion by fostering hostility and reducing opportunities for meaningful dialogue and progress.
For the negative
The negative team argued that polarisation is a catalyst for change, driving awareness, activism, and meaningful conversations that challenge societal norms, ultimately pushing for deeper diversity and inclusion beyond surface-level efforts, despite the messiness and discomfort it often entails.
The Debate proved to be a resounding success, marked by dynamic discussions, engaging humor, and seamless execution. The evening brought together leaders from various industries and created an atmosphere filled with thoughtful debate, laughter, and a sense of connection among attendees who have long supported our mission for a more inclusive and equitable Australia. Here’s what some of our valued guests had to say:
“Thank you DCA for a wonderful and engaging night. It was incredible to see the event come to life so fantastically, with the debate and conversation of such high calibre. We could not have been more delighted as principal sponsor.” — Niki Kesoglou, IAG Executive Manager Culture, Inclusion & Community
“To everyone at DCA who was involved… What a fabulous and fun event! Thank you for making it a seamless success. I can’t speak highly enough of the event and team behind it.” — Ian Goshko (he/him), Global Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, People, Culture & Communications, Telstra.
“We really enjoyed the debate immensely, it was just fabulous. Heartfelt laughter all around and the panel was so very clever and witty, well done.” — Dr. Astrid Perry OAM (she/her), Head of Women, Equity & DFV. Stakeholder Relations, Research & Policy.
“Kudos to you and the team for delivering a pitch-perfect event for all that attended. The first Debate since pre-COVID saw an incredible return to form for which the event is known: great speakers, compelling discussion, wonderful networking and just an all-out good show. Brilliantly done, we’re proud to have played a small role in helping bring it to life!” — Adrian Letilovic (he/him), Diversity & Inclusion Advisor | People, Legal & Corporate Services, SUNCORP
These reflections highlight the success of the event and the enthusiasm shared by all who participated.
DCA Debate photography supplied by Nick Wood.
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