Clorox Change Makers: Celebrating Diversity and Allyship
The Clorox Change Makers program highlights individuals who actively embrace diversity, foster inclusion, and demonstrate allyship, contributing positively to our culture and business. This feature focuses on Mark Danis, a vice president in our legal department overseeing areas like cybersecurity and employment. Mark was nominated by Leah Farmer, a director also on the legal team. We spoke with both to explore Mark’s approach to allyship.
Why did you nominate Mark as a Change Maker? What makes him an ally?
Leah: I nominated Mark because he genuinely listens to understand diverse perspectives, rather than simply responding. I’ve observed his allyship firsthand in professional settings and during team events. Mark excels at creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and welcomed. His curiosity and commitment to understanding varied viewpoints reflect his dedication to fostering inclusivity.
How has Mark’s allyship impacted you and others at Clorox?
Leah: In the short time I reported to Mark, I lost count of the moments he recognized and supported me as a whole person, not just an employee. He identified ways I could use my unique abilities to contribute, allowing me to balance personal challenges while advancing professionally. His encouragement to bring our authentic selves to work has made a profound difference for his team, our Legal and Government Affairs department, his business partners, and the broader company.
What does IDEA and allyship mean to you?
Mark: Allyship, to me, means taking the time to truly listen to a teammate’s story, seeing challenges from their perspective, and understanding their aspirations. It’s about offering support and helping others on their journey. Allyship is about making sure people feel heard and valued, just as others have done for me.
What tips do you have for practicing allyship in daily life?
Mark: My top three tips for allyship are:
Why did you nominate Mark as a Change Maker? What makes him an ally?
Leah: I nominated Mark because he genuinely listens to understand diverse perspectives, rather than simply responding. I’ve observed his allyship firsthand in professional settings and during team events. Mark excels at creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and welcomed. His curiosity and commitment to understanding varied viewpoints reflect his dedication to fostering inclusivity.
How has Mark’s allyship impacted you and others at Clorox?
Leah: In the short time I reported to Mark, I lost count of the moments he recognized and supported me as a whole person, not just an employee. He identified ways I could use my unique abilities to contribute, allowing me to balance personal challenges while advancing professionally. His encouragement to bring our authentic selves to work has made a profound difference for his team, our Legal and Government Affairs department, his business partners, and the broader company.
What does IDEA and allyship mean to you?
Mark: Allyship, to me, means taking the time to truly listen to a teammate’s story, seeing challenges from their perspective, and understanding their aspirations. It’s about offering support and helping others on their journey. Allyship is about making sure people feel heard and valued, just as others have done for me.
What tips do you have for practicing allyship in daily life?
Mark: My top three tips for allyship are:
- Practice active listening and extend support to those outside your usual circle.
- Encourage quieter team members to share their voices—you might be surprised by their insights.
- Consider joining one of our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). I’ve gained tremendous value as a reverse mentee in the NextGen ERG.
Creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and fully engaged is essential to living our purpose and values. By setting an example at every level and continually striving for improvement, we aim to build a stronger, more inclusive Clorox community.
Click here to know more about our inclusion and diversity efforts.
Click here to know more about our inclusion and diversity efforts.
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