The words' diversity', 'equity,' and 'inclusion' are often used interchangeably, but each has a unique meaning.
When we start our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Training, we begin with a straightforward question:
What is diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)?
Diversity is about understanding and celebrating the differences in people. It encompasses all the ways in which people differ, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, physical ability, mental ability, and religious beliefs.
Equity is about ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate and succeed. It is about creating a level playing field where everyone has a fair chance to reach their full potential.
Inclusion is about ensuring everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued. It is about creating an environment where everyone can contribute and where everyone belongs.
These three concepts are more than just buzzwords – they are essential for creating a fair, respectful, and productive workplace. If you are unfamiliar with them, now is the time to learn more!
While most going through the training know the definition of these words or can look them up. The real question is, why are they so important?
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important because they ensure that everyone in the workplace feels respected and valued; they create a sense of belonging. Understanding this is the first step toward building a workplace culture of inclusivity.
When everyone feels like they belong, they are more likely to be productive and do their best work. Do you remember working at an organization where you felt you didn't belong?
Creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace can also help you attract and retain the best talent. In 2021, Glassdoor reported, "more than 3 out of 4 job seekers and employees (76%) report that a diverse workforce is important when evaluating companies and job offers. It was reported that an organization's commitment to DEI and People want to work for companies that are committed to these values."
What can you do to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in your workplace?
You can do many things to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in your workplace. Some things you can do include: - Providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion for all employees - Encouraging employees to participate in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives - Creating policies and practices that are designed to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
How can you become an ally?
Becoming an ally is about taking action to support marginalized groups. It is about using your privilege to create a more just and equitable world. Some things you can do to become an ally include: - Learning about the experiences of marginalized groups - Speaking up when you see or hear something that is not inclusive - challenging your own biases and assumptions - advocating for change.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are more than just buzzwords – they are essential for creating a fair, respectful, and productive workplace. If you are unfamiliar with them, now is the time to learn more! Pearl Hernandez Consulting has helped the biggest skeptics on their personal and business DEI Journeys and we can help you.
As an individual, you can do your part to foster a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. And as an ally, you can use your privilege to support marginalized groups and create a more just and equitable world.
To learn more about our DEI Trainings and other services please contact us.
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