Working Together: Practicing the Science of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The #BLM and #MeToo Movements have highlighted biases in the workplace, leading to terrible events such as the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, xenophobia against Asian people during the COVID-19 pandemic, and sexual violence perpetrated by Harvey Weinstein. Organizational leaders have the opportunity and obligation to build strategy and practice in support of diversity, equity, and inclusion to make lasting change. This book provides expert scholars and professionals' descriptions of case studies and large-scale robust evidence to help leaders recognize the imperative of diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations, identify their own personal barriers and those of their organizations, and specify strategies for achieving positive and persistent change by working together.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The #BLM and #MeToo Movements have highlighted the racial and gender biases that permeate every aspect of life, including the workplace. These movements have brought to light the tragic deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, as well as the xenophobia and sexual violence experienced by Asian people during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is clear that people are being harassed, stereotyped, demeaned, and victimized in the context of work, even by those in positions of power such as police officers and movie producers. What is happening in the American workplace to allow these events to unfold? And, of critical importance, what can leaders do to make lasting change?

In this critical moment in our nation's history, organizational leaders have the opportunity and obligation to build strategy and practice in support of diversity, equity, and inclusion. This book will help all leaders rise to the challenge by describing state-of-the-art science and practice. Expert scholars and professionals blend descriptions of case studies with large-scale robust evidence to help leaders recognize the imperative of diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations, identify their own personal barriers and those of their organizations, and specify strategies for achieving positive and persistent change by working together.

One of the key challenges facing leaders is the need to address unconscious bias. Unconscious bias is a subconscious belief or attitude that can influence our behavior and decisions without our awareness. It can lead to discrimination and unfair treatment of individuals based on their race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or other characteristics. Leaders must be aware of their own unconscious biases and take steps to mitigate them. This can include training, coaching, and mentoring programs, as well as creating a culture of inclusivity and diversity.

Another challenge facing leaders is the need to create a culture of respect and inclusion. This culture should be based on the principles of equality, fairness, and dignity for all individuals. Leaders must be willing to listen to the perspectives of their employees and take action to address any issues that arise. This can include implementing policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion, such as flexible work schedules, paid parental leave, and diversity training programs.

Leaders must also be willing to take risks and make difficult decisions. This can include challenging the status quo, taking on new projects, and making changes to the organization's structure or culture. However, leaders must be prepared to handle the consequences of their decisions and be willing to learn from their mistakes.

In addition to these challenges, leaders must also be aware of the impact of technology on the workplace. Technology has the potential to create new opportunities for diversity and inclusion, but it can also create new barriers. Leaders must be willing to embrace technology and use it to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace. This can include implementing remote work policies, using diversity and inclusion software, and providing training and support to employees who are new to technology.

Finally, leaders must be willing to lead by example. Leaders must be role models for their employees and demonstrate their commitment to diversity and inclusion. This can include speaking out against discrimination and unfair treatment, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and creating a culture of respect and inclusion.

In conclusion, the racial and gender reckonings exemplified by the #BLM and #MeToo Movements have highlighted the biases that affect every part of life, including the workplace. Leaders have the opportunity and obligation to build strategy and practice in support of diversity, equity, and inclusion. By addressing unconscious bias, creating a culture of respect and inclusion, taking risks and making difficult decisions, embracing technology, and leading by example, leaders can help to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace. This book will help all leaders rise to the challenge by describing state-of-the-art science and practice.

Weight: 386g
Dimension: 147 x 201 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197744383