Illinois governor drinks chocolate milk during corporate diversity lesson

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner (R) on Wednesday took a gulp of chocolate milk to demonstrate the positive effects of corporate diversity and inclusion.

During an appearance at the Thompson Center in Chicago, Rauner joined Hyatt Hotels diversity and inclusion executive Tyronne Stoudemire to discuss diversity in the workplace. Thompson poured a glass of white milk to demonstrate that most organizations are led by white men.

“This chocolate syrup represents diversity,” Stoudemire said, pouring some into the glass.

{mosads}“When you look at most organizations, diversity sits at the bottom of the organization. You don’t get inclusion until you actually stir it up,” he continued, prompting Rauner to stir the syrup into the milk. 

“Diversity is the mix, and inclusion is making the mix work,” Stoudemire concluded, inviting Rauner to drink the chocolate milk.

“It’s really, really good. Diversity!” Rauner declared to the crowd.

Rauner is up for reelection in November. He’s facing a primary challenge from state Rep. Jeanne Ives (R).

Among the Democratic challengers are Chris Kennedy, the son of Robert Kennedy, and J.B. Pritzker, whose family owns Hyatt Hotels.