Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality

June 1, 2020

Dear Colleague,

Throughout last week and this weekend, the pain that our country is feeling has touched all of society and is taking an emotional toll on our people at Voya, including me.

The horrific death of George Floyd in Minneapolis on Memorial Day, combined with the recent tragedies involving Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia and Breonna Taylor in Kentucky — on top of other disturbing instances of racism and the disparate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color — have contributed to a collective sense of frustration, sadness, and anger. The impact of systemic racism in our nation is unacceptable and heartbreaking.

As we shared with you on Friday, our commitment to caring for our employees, clients, and all of the communities we serve is unwavering. If you are experiencing stress or having trouble performing your duties because of these events, you can discuss the situation with your manager, and we have resources available through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Additionally, through the Voya Community Fund, we offer tax-free grants to provide financial assistance to employees affected by government-declared disasters or emergencies.

At Voya, our collective and individual efforts to advance diversity, inclusion, and equality throughout our company and in the communities we serve across the country are part of our shared commitment to creating a stronger, and better, Voya. Beyond our company, we have longstanding partnerships and relationships to promote diversity, inclusion, and equality. These proactive efforts by our people and our company have achieved improved outcomes, internally and externally. But we will do more — each of us can do more. I ask that you consider how you can contribute in your own way.

At a time in which the societal challenges can seem daunting, we have an obligation to help — to combat racism, injustice, and discrimination, while setting an example for the greater community. We will build on the impacts of our Diversity and Inclusion program, our Employee Resource Groups, and our passionate people. We will work with our external partners and community organizations. We will support, and care for, all of our colleagues. If you are feeling overwhelmed, please know that you are not alone. Your Voya colleagues are with you — and I am with you.

Together, we will work to drive the change that is critically needed.

Best regards,

Rod