Lorina Marshall-Blake contributed to the Philadelphia Business Journal in a guest column about racial disparity and the importance of inclusion and equity. Marshall-Blake writes about the gap between employees and leadership when it comes to how they perceive diversity and inclusion at work. She reminds employers that “no one simply parks their personal experience at the door when they go to work,” and urges them to take advantage of “unique cultural experiences… [and] a rich variety of thought” their employees have to offer. She offers tips for viewing diversity through the lens of opportunity and creating space for inclusivity. Ultimately, Marshall-Blake shares a belief held throughout Independence: Diversity is good business.
Marshall-Blake also appeared in the Philadelphia Business Journal cover story titled “Listen. Speak. Act.” in response to the killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis. Marshall-Blake was one of several local African American business leaders to contribute. She shared her perspective on the role of Philadelphia businesses in the fight against racism: “We should use our positions of influence, respect, and trust to collectively speak out and condemn injustice everywhere and every time it occurs.”