How Evaluators Can Shine Their Light on Equity

The field of evaluation is at a critical moment of transformation as more evaluators are acknowledging and addressing inequities that impact the communities affected by a long and devastating history of racism in our country that systematically limits opportunities for some groups while protecting the advantages of others. How might evaluators working in consulting firms be a part of this transformation? Two evaluation consulting firms will share how they developed internal organizational learning initiatives to “shine their light” on equity issues. Participants will learn how these firms create space for staff to engage in equity-related discussions and reflections, respond to equity challenges and root causes, and expand evaluative thinking (internally and with their clients) to include equity. Presenters will discuss the impact of organizational learning efforts, what shining a light on equity looks like in a client-services context, and the role that consulting firms can play in transforming the field.