The fight for workplace inclusion spans decades and continents, marked by the relentless efforts of extraordinary individuals who broke barriers and challenged societal norms. These trailblazers laid the foundation for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as we understand it today. From advocating for gender equality to dismantling racial bias, their contributions continue to inspire leaders worldwide. In this article, we spotlight 8 DEI leaders from the past century who significantly impacted workplace inclusion. Their journeys reflect courage, determination, and an unwavering commitment to creating equitable workplaces.
As we navigate the complexities of DEI in 2025, their legacies remind us of the transformative power of inclusive leadership.
Top 8 DEI leaders who redefined workplace inclusion
1. Frances Perkins: The architect of labour rights
Frances Perkins, the first woman to serve in a U.S. presidential cabinet as Secretary of Labour under Franklin D. Roosevelt, was a trailblazer for workplace reform. Her firsthand experience witnessing the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire ignited her mission to advocate for safe working conditions and fair labour laws. Perkins championed groundbreaking initiatives such as the 40-hour workweek, minimum wage, and Social Security.
Perkins’ advocacy reminds leaders of the importance of systemic reform. Her vision of equity shows how inclusive policies can drive sustainable economic progress.
2. Dolores Huerta: Champion of agricultural workers
Dolores Huerta co-founded the United Farm Workers Union, fighting tirelessly for the rights of agricultural labourers. She led numerous strikes and boycotts, resulting in landmark contracts that improved working conditions and wages for farmworkers. Her iconic slogan, “Sí, se puede” (Yes, we can), became a rallying cry for change.
Huerta’s story underscores the power of grassroots movements and collective action in driving workplace inclusion, particularly for marginalised communities.
3. A. Philip Randolph: Voice of black workers
As the founder of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, A. Philip Randolph advocated for African American workers in the railroad industry. He successfully pushed for anti-discrimination policies in federal employment and played a pivotal role in organising the 1963 March on Washington.
Randolph’s efforts highlight the significance of policy-driven change and the importance of holding governments accountable for workplace equality.
4. Lilly Ledbetter: Equal pay advocate
Lilly Ledbetter’s fight for pay equality began when she discovered that her male colleagues earned significantly more despite performing the same job. Although her Supreme Court case was unsuccessful, her advocacy led to the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in 2009.
Ledbetter’s legacy teaches us the importance of persistence in the face of setbacks. Transparency in pay structures remains a cornerstone of equitable workplaces.
5. Leonard Matlovich: LGBTQ+ rights activist
Air Force Sergeant Leonard Matlovich made history by coming out as gay to challenge the military’s discriminatory policies. His bravery paved the way for the eventual repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” in 2011, allowing LGBTQ+ individuals to serve openly in the U.S. military.
Matlovich’s courage reminds us that inclusion is about creating spaces where everyone feels free to be their authentic selves without fear of discrimination.
6. Esther Peterson: Advocate for women’s rights
Esther Peterson’s work in the Department of Labour under President Kennedy focused on improving conditions for working women. She played a crucial role in passing the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and advocated for daycare access and racial equity.
Peterson’s efforts illustrate the interconnectedness of gender equity with other aspects of inclusion, such as childcare support and racial justice.
7. Bayard Rustin: The strategist behind nonviolent protest
Bayard Rustin, a key advisor to Martin Luther King Jr., brought Gandhian principles of nonviolence to the civil rights movement. He was instrumental in organising the 1963 March on Washington and championed workplace inclusion for African Americans.
Rustin’s work highlights the importance of strategic planning and collaboration in achieving inclusive workplaces and societal change.
8. Betty Dukes: Walmart gender discrimination advocate
Betty Dukes’ class-action lawsuit against Walmart in 2001 exposed widespread gender discrimination. Although the Supreme Court dismissed her case, it inspired countless women to file their own suits, sparking a movement for workplace fairness.
Dukes’ story is a testament to the power of collective action and the role of legal systems in addressing workplace inequities.
What can today’s leaders learn from these 8 DEI leaders?
- Embrace intersectionality: It is critical to understand that discrimination often overlaps across gender, race, and socioeconomic status. Leaders must create policies that address these intersections.
- Be transparent: Clear communication about pay, promotions, and opportunities fosters trust and fairness.
- Prioritise grassroots movements: Encouraging employee resource groups and grassroots initiatives can amplify marginalised voices.
- Measure progress: Use data to track DEI metrics, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
- Lead by example: Inclusive leaders model the behaviours they wish to see, inspiring organisational change.
Conclusion: Changeincontent perspective
The stories of these 8 DEI leaders remind us that inclusion is not a one-time effort but a continuous journey. They show that courageous individuals can disrupt deeply entrenched systems to create equitable workplaces.
At Changeincontent, we believe that these lessons from history are vital in shaping a more inclusive future. By embracing diversity and rejecting bias, organisations can thrive in ways that benefit all.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the writer’s insights, supported by data and resources available both online and offline, as applicable. Changeincontent.com is committed to promoting inclusivity across all forms of content. We broadly define inclusivity as media, policies, law, and history—encompassing all elements that influence the lives of women and gender-queer individuals. Our goal is to promote understanding and advocate for comprehensive inclusivity.
