Valuing diversity enables us to create inclusive workplaces; to treat people as individuals, taking their differences into account. We each have a cultural lens through which we view the world. It’s taught to us as we grow, shaping our values, attitudes and communication style. Diversity training offers skills, knowledge and awareness to open the way to understanding and appreciating all our differences.
Why implement diversity initiatives in your workplace? It’s simple.
- Your clients are increasingly diverse
- Your staff is increasingly diverse
- You want to find and keep the best people for the job
- You want to minimise legal issues and complaints
- It’s the right thing to do
The New Zealand Human Rights Commission reported an increase in enquiries and complaints in the year 2008-2009, identifying that 43% of all complaints related to unlawful discrimination in employment or pre-employment.
‘Among single grounds of unlawful discrimination, disability was the basis for the highest percentage of complaints (26.8%) followed by race (19.4%) and sex (12.4%). However, when the various grounds were consolidated, race was the basis for the highest percentage of complaints.’
(HRC Annual Report 2009)
Diversity initiatives are most effective when driven by the organisation. Staff buy-in and well planned follow-up is essential to ensure that the learning becomes embedded in workplace culture and practices.
For more information about Cultural Diversity, contact Jenny
I recommend Jenny Magee for any community organisation or business wishing to develop awareness of, empathy with and confidence in dealing with our diverse communities.
~ Phil Grey, Manager, Community Radio, Hamilton