The Elephant in the Room
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If we didn’t discuss the events of recent weeks throughout the state, we could almost be accused of being color blind — pun intended. While not specifically addressing diversity, IIAV’s efforts at outreach have been long standing and on-going. Right or wrong, we have not conducted ourselves under a banner of “look what we’re doing” and it’s likely because I have felt that our efforts are targeted to supporting independent insurance agents regardless no matter who, what, when or where. That said, although I’ve called out and been vocal when I saw actions that I thought were just wrong, it would not be appropriate or relevant to outline those examples.
For several years, IIAV tried to help the National African American Insurance Association start a chapter here in Richmond. We worked with a member who was active with that national association and we held a number of meetings at our office and got speakers for their programs. I really don’t know why the program didn’t continue, but the interest was apparently not there. Should we try again? Let's just say that if any member would like to work with us to help start such a chapter, we’ll provide any assistance possible.
Through our INVEST program, IIAV sends speakers to a wide range of schools, both urban and rural. We broadly work with guidance counselors in high schools to introduce students to the insurance industry and profession. The efforts are of course two-fold — potential future customers and employees. Have we specifically targeted certain schools? No, but we certainly speak to a number of educator groups and I don’t recall ever being asked to provide a speaker for a school and turning them down. Moreover, IIAV has been very active in VCU’s insurance program and worked to help their students with intern programs with member agencies throughout the state.
Our national association, IIABA, recently released a statement on Peaceful Reform and Recent Events, prior to initiating virtual leadership conferences to discuss initiatives that the state organizations can take throughout the country. The calls are concentrated on what the state associations are doing now and we look forward to continued discussions.
I will say, I was born and raised in the South. I was a “bussing baby” in Newport News, where I quickly learned that separate was anything but equal. Recent events have generated some opportunities with my brother and sister to discuss events and our family history. I would imagine that a lot of families are having similar discussions.
Please know that IIAV stands for the Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia — no matter who, what, when or where — and our informational programs are for independent agents, our legislative efforts are for independent agents and continuing professional education efforts are for independent agents. Could we do more? I welcome your thoughts and conversation.
Robert N. Bradshaw, Jr., MAM
IIAV President & CEO
