Diversity and Inclusion – Journal

Diversity and Inclusion

Week 4 Journal

BUS 119 Principles of Personal & Organizational Leadership

Diversity and Inclusion

What is diversity?

Diversity is accepting, understanding, and valuing people from different backgrounds, sexual orientation, education, age, experiences, and many other groups. Diversity has changed over the year and is still changing. There are three eras of diversity. In the 1960s and 1970’s equal employment laws were created. These laws were centered on discrimination and fairness. Some of the laws that were passed are Equal pay act which focuses on men and women receiving the same pay. Civil rights act which protected employees from discrimination of color, race, origin, religion, and sex. Executive orders which required organizations that accepted federal funds to submit affirmative action plans that demonstrated their progress in hiring and promoting groups of people who had been discriminated against previously. Age Discrimination Act which protects people over 40 years of age from being discriminated against solely on their age.

In the 1980s and 1990s, there were more advances to the view of diversity which focus on acceptance of difference. Diversity expanded beyond gender and race and included, physical and mental abilities, sexual orientation, and age to name a few. The metaphor for this period was referred to as a salad due to the mixing of individuals, cultures, and characteristics all into one. People from different background and cultures were now able to coexist without having to give up their identities and traditions.

In the 2000s to present diversity is still a concern. Laws that were produced in the 1960s still play a major role in the workplace in regards to diversity. However, people now are starting to feel they are on the same team due to their differences and not despite their differences (Northouse, 2018).

What is inclusion?

Many people feel diversity and inclusion are the same. However, they are different. Where diversity refers to different people in one group, inclusion is more about making those different people feel included in the group. It’s more about giving the people a voice and making them feel valued and respected.

I really enjoy where diversity and inclusion is going in society today and I have seen firsthand how the changes are making a positive impact in the workplace. In my place of work, we have a very diverse group of employees. From race, age, to gender and sexual orientation. I have made great connections and lifetime friendships with people that I have worked with over time. Inclusion plays a major role in the workplace as well. It’s never a pleasant feeling when you don’t feel a part of a group or you don’t fit in with your coworkers. I always make it a point to make sure I have open communication with my staff and make sure they all have a sense of belonging.

References:

Northouse, P. G. (2018). Introduction to leadership: Concepts and practice (4th ed.). Retrieved from https://content.ashford.edu/