By Staff
Why is civil rights important to you?
Civil rights are deeply personal and integral to my work as a senior leader in diversity and inclusion. I’ve spent over two decades advocating for equitable opportunities in education, technology, and professional development, especially for historically underrepresented communities. As a contributor to Cisco’s Social Justice Platform and other transformative initiatives, I’ve seen firsthand how empowering marginalized groups not only enriches lives but also strengthens communities and organizations. Ensuring civil rights is about building a just and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Why is it important to exercise your vote?
Voting is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape the future and drive meaningful change. As someone who has supported initiatives to increase representation and equity, I understand that every vote is a step toward creating policies that reflect the needs of all people, especially those who have been overlooked. Our history shows that collective action through voting has dismantled barriers and advanced civil rights. Participating in elections ensures your voice contributes to the legacy of progress.
What would you tell someone who doesn’t feel that their vote matters?
I’d remind them that every significant change in our country has started with individuals who believed in the power of their voices. I’ve seen how small actions can lead to large-scale impact, whether in corporate strategies or community initiatives. Voting is not just about individual impact but about being part of a collective movement that shapes the future. When you vote, you honor those who fought for this right and help ensure the issues you care about remain on the agenda.
As a sponsor, what would you like to see come from your investment in the 60th commemorative march for Bloody Sunday?
I would hope to see a renewed commitment to advancing civil rights and empowering the next generation of leaders through this historic event. My vision includes fostering dialogues that inspire actionable change, increasing awareness of past struggles, and bridging communities to tackle present challenges. By supporting this event, I aim to amplify the voices of those who have been historically underserved and promote a unified vision of equality and inclusion.
What kind of impact do you feel your company will have from the partnership with Salute Selma, Inc.?
Partnering with Salute Selma, Inc. offers an opportunity to solidify our commitment to social justice and community empowerment. Through this collaboration, I envision amplifying awareness of civil rights history while advancing programs that provide tangible benefits to underrepresented groups. This partnership aligns with our mission of fostering inclusivity and creating pathways to equity, showcasing the role corporations can play in driving societal progress.
What can be done to educate the next generation about how far we have come and how far we need to go to see true equality?
Education must blend storytelling with action, highlighting both the triumphs and ongoing struggles in the pursuit of equality. Programs like the ones I’ve led at Cisco, partnering with HBCUs and minority-serving institutions, provide a blueprint for engaging young minds while preparing them for leadership. Incorporating history, mentorship, and opportunities for activism ensures that the next generation understands their role in continuing the legacy of progress. True equality will come when we empower them to innovate solutions for the challenges they inherit.
As a sponsor, what would success look like for the efforts of Salute Selma, Inc. in honoring the 60th commemorative march for Bloody Sunday?
Success would mean creating a lasting impact that goes beyond the event, inspiring individuals to take action toward equity and justice. I would like to see increased community engagement, elevated public awareness about the significance of Bloody Sunday, and actionable steps toward policy reform and inclusion. The commemorative march should serve as a platform for education, unity, and advocacy, ensuring its message resonates far into the future.
About
“Scott McGregor is a seasoned leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with over 25 years of experience in the tech industry. Currently serving as Director of Social Justice at Cisco, he oversees a $300 million portfolio of initiatives aimed at advancing social equity. His career highlights include crafting Cisco’s 2020 Social Justice Platform, spearheading impactful collaborations with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and developing innovative programs that significantly increased diversity in early-career tech talent.
Throughout his career, Scott has built a reputation for fostering inclusive cultures, forming strategic partnerships, and aligning organizational goals with equitable practices. He has mentored diverse teams globally, led employee resource groups, and pioneered training programs across multiple regions. His passion lies in leveraging technology to create transformative opportunities and advocating for underrepresented communities in impactful ways.”
website https://www.saluteselma.com/
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