Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
As Human Resource professionals, we have an important role in creating an environment where diversity is valued.
We are responsible for monitoring and ensuring the integration of diversity in our workplaces. By doing so, we will witness strengthened workplaces, enhanced employee productivity and reduced litigation risks.
The ARSHRM diversity program’s purpose is to affirm diversity awareness amongst its affiliated chapters and within the state of Arkansas. Each affiliate chapter is responsible for at least one diversity-oriented program per year.
Per the Society for Human Resource Management
“To celebrate diversity is to appreciate and value individual differences. SHRM strives to be the leader in promoting workplace diversity. Although the term is often used to refer to differences based on ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability, national origin and sexual orientation, diversity encompasses an infinite range of individuals’ unique characteristics and experiences, including communication styles, physical characteristics such as height and weight, speed of learning and comprehension.”
Diversity Equity and Inclusion News
Dealing with diversity in the workplace means understanding and relating effectively with people who are different from you. The ability for a diverse group of people to build strength and unity through their diversity is the power that propels organizations into new dimensions of performance. Discussions of workplace diversity tend to start with the topics of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and disability. Indeed, organizations that want to thrive in the future will need to have employees and managers who are aware of and skilled in dealing with differences along these identity lines.
Another slice of diversity that is not always included in typical diversity discussions, however, is generational diversity. In any large organization, you are bound to find divisions, units, or work teams where five distinct generations are working side by side. Important differences have been identified between these generations in the way they approach work, work/life balance, employee loyalty, authority, and other important issues. For those reasons, an individual’s age is one of the most common predictors of differences in attitudes and behaviors. Different communication styles and work habits can create misunderstandings between coworkers, leading to conflict and disengagement.
These tips will help to create common ground among generations, but organizations are encouraged to develop policies and programs that will help meet each generation’s unique needs and expectations.
Communicate appropriately, gearing messages for generational preferences. Create programs that encourage generations to work together and to share knowledge. Build diverse teams of all ages, genders, and cultures. These teams will learn to value and trust each other. Encourage leaders at all levels to be flexible in their management styles. Some generations want hands-off leaders, others want a more involved management style.
Articles: A collection of articles on diversity and inclusion topics from leading business publications such as Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Fast Company.
How to manage a multigeneration workforce
Communicating with a multigenerational workforce
Diversity & Inclusion Update
November Diversity
Native American Heritage Month
November is Native American Heritage Month where the voices of the oppressed and marginalized Indigenous people are heard all month long, and hopefully all year long too. Take some time this month to learn about the traditions and cultures, including the music and dance of local tribes in your area.
National Veterans and Military Families Month
November is also National Veterans and Military Families Month, where we show appreciation to all those serving in our military and veterans who have served. Give our service members and all veterans the appreciation they deserve for the sacrifices they and their families make for our freedoms.
Movember
Movember is an annual campaign that takes place in November to raise awareness for men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. During this month, men are encouraged to grow mustaches to spark conversations about these important topics and raise funds for research and support programs.
Transgender Awareness Week – November 13-19
This observance raises visibility for the transgender community. Its goal is to address issues they face. Advocate as an ally about education surrounding discrimination toward transgender individuals in society.
World Diabetes Day – November 14
Nearly a century after the discovery of insulin, this world health day raises challenges that those living with diabetes face daily. Today, we focus on advocating for the need for access to diabetic care throughout the world.
International Day For Tolerance – November 16
Established in 1996, this day promotes respect for the world’s cultures, languages, and religions. Today is a day to educate the general public about the need for universal human rights for all humans.
International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day – November 19
Also known as Survivor Day, the event is sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, a program that unites survivors globally. Stand alongside survivors and their families as we come together to understand through shared experiences today.
Native Women’s Equal Pay Day – November 21
Today, we learn that Native women must work nearly 23 months to earn the same salary as white, non-Hispanic men do in one year. This wage disparity is enlightening and deserves public awareness. Educating others about this discrepancy ensures that the pay gap fight continues worldwide every year.
Final Thoughts
A great way for an employer to show support for any one of these celebrations is to partner with a local nonprofit or community event and give your employees an opportunity to volunteer and represent your company. Community service is a fun way to give back while team building and keeping the employees engaged.
Find more Diversity and Inclusion resources here.
Quick Resources
A leading diversity and inclusion membership organization that provides research, tools, and resources to help organizations create inclusive workplaces.
An organization that promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace through training, certification, and research.
A comprehensive resource hub from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation that includes research, case studies, and best practices for creating a more inclusive workplace.
A selection of online courses on diversity and inclusion topics from providers such as LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Coursera.