In today’s rapidly evolving business world, embracing economic equity is no longer optional—it’s a competitive advantage. Companies that prioritize equity and inclusion are better positioned to drive growth, innovation, and long-term success.
To demonstrate this necessity, the Detroit Regional Chamber launched A Business Case for Equity series in 2025. The series features regional business leaders who share their insights on equity in the workplace and provide examples of best practices and strategies that have been successful within their organizations. By showcasing real-life examples from successful employers, the series aims to spark meaningful conversations and provide actionable insights for businesses of all sizes.
How CMS Energy and Consumers Energy Are Energizing Equity From the Inside Out: Angela Thompkins
The Business Case for Equity interview series returns with Angela Thompkins, Vice President of External Affairs and Media Relations and Chief Diversity Officer for CMS Energy Corporation and Consumers Energy Company, who discussed how her company embeds economic equity into its business practices.
Thompkins shared her company’s comprehensive approach that began with foundational internal training to establish a shared understanding. This strategy has since expanded, with an additional focus on improving business outcomes, creating a community-based approach, and assisting its customers statewide through financial support and removing barriers to economic vitality through initiatives like the “Energizing Equity” program.