Employers must remain vigilant against discrimination, harassment or intimidation in the workplace even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has warned. But amid hiring freezes, furloughs and layoffs, companies might put diversity, inclusion and equity initiatives on the backburner. Research shows that despite the demonstrated benefits of inclusive and equitable environments, there's a perception gap as to its importance.

But that's not the case at Crowe LLP, a public accounting, consulting and technology firm headquartered in Chicago, Julie Wood, its chief people officer, told HR Dive in an interview. The firm's leadership has increased its commitment to diversity and inclusion, appointing its first ever chief diversity officer (CDO) April 9, Wood said.

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