Doubling Down on DEI: Our Commitment at WWO

by Colette Berube

My name is Colette, and I am the president and founder of Workers Wellness Organization (WWO). We are a team of 13 women from diverse backgrounds, and I have made it my mission to ensure that our organization reflects the very communities we aim to serve. I firmly believe that we don’t move forward without diversity—it is the foundation of equity, progress, and justice.

As we recognize Black History Month, it is impossible to ignore the troubling reality that DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives are being rolled back across industries. This regression goes against everything WWO stands for. DEI was created to level the playing field for marginalized communities—people of color, women, older workers, and other underrepresented groups—and its dismantling signals a blatant disregard for workplace equity.

In the cannabis industry, these disparities are even more stark. While Black and Brown individuals have been disproportionately criminalized for cannabis-related offenses, today, the legal market profits largely benefit white-owned businesses. The numbers speak for themselves—people of color are still vastly underrepresented in ownership and leadership roles, despite being the very communities most affected by cannabis prohibition. Meanwhile, thousands remain incarcerated for offenses that others are now building wealth from. This injustice is precisely why WWO refuses to stay silent.

I am appalled by companies rolling back their DEI policies. When organizations strip away these essential initiatives, they are making a statement: that equality is not a priority, that marginalized voices are not valued, and that progress is optional. At WWO, we reject that entirely.

For me, DEI is personal. I am someone who notices when people of color are missing from the room. I make it my responsibility to call it out, because representation matters. As a white woman, I recognize my privilege, and with that comes a duty to be a strong ally—not just in words, but in action.

WWO is doubling down on our DEI commitment. We will continue to advocate for equitable workplaces, create opportunities for marginalized workers, and ensure that everyone—regardless of race, gender, or background—feels seen, heard, and valued.

This is not just a moment; it’s a movement. And we’re not backing down.