Tokenism, whitewashing, and greenwashing:

Tokenism: The illusion of inclusion
Superficially promoting diversity without meaningful action. Often involves showcasing underrepresented employees for optics without offering real growth opportunities.

Examples:

• Highlighting diverse staff in marketing but lacking diversity in leadership
• Promoting a woman or person of color to a visible role without supporting their success
• Creating Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with no real influence on company policy
  
  

Whitewashing: Rewriting the narrative
Presenting a progressive image without acknowledging or repairing past inequities.

Examples:

• Rebranding as inclusive without addressing a history of discrimination
• Publicly committing to DIEP while ignoring internal complaints and inequities
• Using diverse imagery without structural representation
  
  

Greenwashing: Misleading on sustainability and ethics
Using sustainability, ethics, or social impact narratives as marketing tools without substantial action.

Examples:

• Promoting “eco-friendly” initiatives while continuing harmful practices
• Highlighting diversity campaigns while sourcing from unethical suppliers
• Claiming carbon neutrality while outsourcing emissions-heavy work