4 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Topics
The proposed client scenario presents an opportunity to discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion in the craft brewing industry. These topics can be part of a class discussion or an online discussion board to add meaning and context to the research problem.
Craft brewing is a multi-billion-dollar industry, but less than 1% of breweries in the U.S. are black-owned…not for lack of interest, but largely due to lack of access to seed money to start a business, lack of access to property suitable for brewing operations, and lack of access to employment experience and education/training programs.
People of color, as well as people in the LGBTQIA+ community, and women are significantly underrepresented in the craft brewing and other beverage alcohol industries. People of color have not only felt unwelcome as industry members, but also as consumers of craft beer. Fortunately, some members of underrepresented communities who are passionate about brewing and distilling have acted on their goals to make the craft brewing industry more inclusive and welcoming.
To learn more about the movement to make craft brewing more inclusive and diverse, explore the following resources:
The NPR program 1A recently presented a segment on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the craft brewing industry and community.
Entrepreneurship and Equity in Brewing offers a 10-week program that trains Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and other underrepresented groups in beer brewing and running a business in the craft brewing industry.
The Michael James Jackson Foundation funds scholarship awards to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color within the brewing and distilling trades.
The Brewer’s Association is a non-profit trade association whose purpose is to promote and protect American craft brewers, their beers, and the community of brewing enthusiasts. The Brewer’s Association offers a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Mini-Grants program to bring educational opportunities “to those pursuing entrepreneurship and employment opportunities in craft beer and those seeking to explore the legacy and importance of beer in culture.” The Brewer’s Association also maintains a resource hub for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Several breweries are leading the way in creating a more diverse and inclusive craft brewing community.
There are several places to find stories of those who are underrepresented in the brewing industry and community, and even those who have been enslaved, oppressed, or threatened:
The story of Patsy Young, a woman who was a brewer, weaver, baker, and a slave.
Story from the LGBTQIA+ community: Beer is for Everyone.
Perspectives from women in brewing.
Discussion and reflection questions:
Contribute a discussion or reflection question for this topic.