DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION…WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Is diversity about tolerance?  The goal was to accept people who were different from you.  The truth is that it is really about understanding.

In our new leadership module from Trusted Advisors Network entitled, UNDERSTANDING DIVERSITY WHILE CREATING INCLUSION, we have learned that diversity is about understanding, valuing, and celebrating the uniqueness of every person.  We further have learned that diverse organizations are enriched by individual differences in all aspects.  These differences can be along the lines of:

-Race                                              – Socio-Economic Status

-Ethnicity                                      – Age

-Gender                                         – Physical Disabilities

-Sexual Orientation                    – Religious Beliefs and Expression

-Other Ideologies                        – Political Beliefs

Bringing together diverse members of the team can create competitive advantages through the generation of new ideas, new products or services, and new thought processes.

Part of the challenge of reaching a truly diverse organization is that inclusion is often dumped into the diversity bucket when it is an entirely different thing.  It means representation.  Inclusion is the achievement of a work environment in which all team members are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the organizational success.

Here is a great quote:  Diversity is being invited to the party.  Inclusion is being asked to dance.

Have A Great Week!