How woke is Washington State Employees Credit Union?

Introduction

Washington State Employees Credit Union (WSECU) is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that has been serving the residents of Washington State since 1957. Founded by a group of public employees, WSECU offers a wide range of financial services while maintaining a strong focus on community support, diversity, and inclusion. In this review, we’ll dive into WSECU’s monetary contributions, DEI policies, mandatory training, support for LGBTQ+ initiatives, and marketing strategies to assess just how woke this brand is.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

WSECU is firmly committed to supporting progressive causes, even if they don’t always specify the exact financial details.

For instance, following the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor and the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on the Black community, WSECU stated, “Historically, WSECU has contributed to a stronger society by offering equitable financial services and opportunities to increase financial stability. These are ways we help address economic inequality, which often goes hand-in-hand with racial inequality.”

Their commitments include providing products and services that advance the financial well-being of all members, training staff to serve members without bias, expanding investments in organizations that promote racial and economic justice, combating hate and racism, and ensuring their Board prioritizes diverse representation and equitable policies.

Prioritization of DEI Policies

WSECU has implemented comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies to nurture a more inclusive environment. Their inclusive hiring practices ensure candidates from diverse backgrounds have equal opportunities.

“We’re proud that our employees represent the diversity of our communities, truly making WSECU the cooperative for our members and Washington,” they state in their 2023 Annual and Community Report.

According to their DEI page, they also created a Director of Culture and Diversity position.

Mandatory Training Sessions

As part of its initiatives to advance racial equity, WSECU conducts leadership training on systemic racism and staff training on service without bias. However, it is not explicitly stated whether these are mandatory.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

WSECU states that “as a financial institution and employer, we embrace our special responsibility to expand opportunity and to create a place of inclusivity and belonging for everyone.” However, it does not appear to publicize whether it supports LGBTQ+ initiatives.

Marketing and Branding

WSECU’s marketing highlights its commitment to inclusivity and equity, promoting racial and economic justice. They provide unbiased financial services, train staff for effective service, and strengthen diversity and inclusion strategies. WSECU invests in organizations promoting justice, works with allies against hate and racism, and ensures diverse Board representation, reinforcing their social activism.

Conclusion

WSECU exemplifies a commitment to progressive values, focusing on community support, diversity, and inclusion since 1957. While specific financial contributions are not always detailed, their actions reflect a strong dedication to social justice. WSECU’s DEI policies, unbiased financial services, and stance against systemic racism highlight their mission to foster equity. 

Although explicit support for LGBTQ+ initiatives is not detailed, their overall goal of inclusivity is clear. WSECU remains a socially responsible and community-focused financial institution, embodying woke principles.