Posted by Cristina Lopez on August 10, 2021
Channel Futures announced its first-ever Channel Futures DE&I 101 list, celebrating individuals from diverse and multicultural backgrounds who have committed to change and are making an impact across our industry. We’re proud to announce that our very own Anthony Graziano was among the honorees!
With a career spanning nearly 20 years in IT and 18 years of that at Tech Data, Anthony is a driving force in the space of diversity, equity and inclusion. We sat down with the vice president of vendor marketing and chair of business resource group Spectrum to get his take on the current state of DE&I — and how we can each contribute to positive change.
For me, both personally and professionally, It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. Our experiences, viewpoints, backgrounds and life experiences open the door for us to see things from different vantage points. Diversity sparks innovation by bringing different perspectives and solutions to the table. Include everyone.
The need for diversity, equity and inclusion has been acknowledged in our industry for many years. Simply put, we are headed in the right direction, but there is still a long way to go to be a truly inclusive society that values difference. I am honored to be recognized by the Channel Futures DE&I community alongside industry colleagues. As an openly gay senior leader, I hope I’m setting the tone for belonging and empowering others to bring their full, authentic selves into the workplace — and know that they can be a part of an organization that values difference and enables them to succeed because of that difference, not in spite of it.
An environment that celebrates diversity, fair treatment regardless of one’s starting point in life, and the true feeling of belonging. People want to work in diverse, equitable and inclusive organizations and people drive business, organizations and organizational change. Change starts with individuals and leaders taking responsibility for their own attitudes and behaviors.
People want to work in diverse, equitable and inclusive organizations and people drive business, organizations and organizational change. Change starts with individuals and leaders taking responsibility for their own attitudes and behaviors.
Educate yourself and listen loudly so you can meet people where they are. Doing so brings more clarity to help understand different points of view and allows us to empathize. Reach out to one of our business resource groups (BRGs) to learn more or join.
Along with the other honorees, Anthony is now part of a permanent gallery featured on the Channel Futures website. Learn more about Anthony’s professional journey in his article, Look out Corporate America, Here We Are! Congratulations to Anthony and all the honorees!
