What comes to your mind when you hear the word “diversity”? For years, it was a dark to light skin color pallet for me. Diversity somehow meant co-existing of people of a different colors. Which, in parts, is true but doesn’t give the whole picture. If I may dare say so, isn’t enough either.
Diversity, inclusion, and equity (DIE) are three interrelated concepts that are becoming increasingly important in the workplace and in society as a whole. While each concept has its own unique focus, they are all related to the goal of creating a more just and fair society for all individuals. As somebody who works with youth and inclusion, I wanted to explore what each concept means, why they are important, and most importantly how they can be achieved.
Well diversity, as most commonly used, refers to the differences that exist among individuals, including differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, socioeconomic status, and more. It encompasses all the unique qualities and experiences that make each person who they are. Embracing diversity means recognizing and valuing these differences and ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background.
Inclusion, on the other hand, refers to the intentional efforts to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of their differences. It involves actively seeking out diverse perspectives and experiences and creating opportunities for everyone to contribute and be heard. Inclusion means that everyone is valued and respected and that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate and succeed. And while I agree that diversity in the workplace and generally has been able to create and provide better opportunities for all. Inclusion is what has really made sure that everyone on the table not only has a seat but has their custom-made ergonomic seats and feels included.
Beyond both diversity and inclusion, equity refers to the fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and benefits to all individuals, regardless of their differences. It acknowledges that some individuals may face systemic barriers that prevent them from achieving their full potential and seeks to eliminate those barriers. Equity means ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their background.
Why are diversity, inclusion, and equity important?
There are many reasons why diversity, inclusion, and equity are important. First, they promote social justice and fairness by recognizing and valuing the unique experiences and perspectives of all individuals. This helps to create a more just and equitable society where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.
Second, diversity, inclusion, and equity can help to foster creativity and innovation by bringing together individuals with different backgrounds and perspectives. This can lead to new and innovative ideas that can benefit organizations and society as a whole.
Third, embracing diversity, inclusion, and equity can help to attract and retain a diverse workforce. Studies have shown that employees who feel valued and included are more engaged, productive, and loyal to their organizations. This can lead to better business outcomes and a more positive workplace culture.
How can we achieve diversity, inclusion, and equity?
Achieving diversity, inclusion, and equity requires intentional efforts and a commitment to change. Here are some strategies that can help:
- Develop a diversity, inclusion, and equity policy: This policy should outline your organization’s commitment to DIE and provide clear guidelines for how these principles will be implemented.
- Conduct a diversity audit: This involves assessing your organization’s current level of diversity and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
- Provide training and education: This includes training employees on diversity, inclusion, and equity issues, as well as providing education on the importance of these concepts.
- Foster a culture of inclusivity: This involves creating a culture where all individuals feel valued and respected, and where diverse perspectives and experiences are welcomed and celebrated.
- Hold yourself accountable: This involves regularly monitoring progress and holding yourself accountable for achieving your DIE goals.
In conclusion, diversity, inclusion, and equity are essential for creating a more just and equitable society. Embracing these principles can help to foster creativity, innovation, and a more positive workplace culture. Achieving diversity, inclusion, and equity requires intentional efforts and a commitment to change, but the benefits are well worth the investment.
