Diversity and inclusion programs are essential in today's business environment, where workforce diversity is increasing. However, some companies may feel that being 'woke' is not the right approach for their workplace culture. Here are some ideas for developing a diversity and inclusion program that is inclusive and effective:
Woke is an adjective derived from African-American Vernacular English, meaning "alert to racial prejudice and discrimination". Beginning in the 2010s, it came to encompass a broader awareness of social inequalities such as sexism and LGBT rights. - Wikipedia
Start with a survey or focus group to learn about your employees' diversity and inclusion needs. This will help you identify areas that need improvement and develop targeted solutions that resonate with your team.
Develop a diversity and inclusion policy that reflects the values and culture of your company. This policy should be communicated & training provided to all employees, and it should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the workplace and society.
Provide diversity and inclusion training for all employees. This training should focus on increasing awareness and understanding of different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles. It should also include strategies for creating an inclusive work environment.
Create a diversity and inclusion task force that includes employees from different backgrounds, levels, and departments. This task force can help to develop and implement diversity and inclusion initiatives that are relevant and effective for your workplace.
Foster a culture of inclusivity by encouraging open communication, collaboration, and respect among employees. This can be achieved through team-building activities, mentoring programs, and other initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion values.
Promote diversity and inclusion through recruitment and retention initiatives. This may include targeted outreach to diverse communities, flexible work arrangements, and other benefits that support a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Celebrate diversity and inclusion through events and activities that showcase different cultures and perspectives. This can include cultural festivals, diversity days, and other initiatives highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
By adopting these ideas, companies can develop an effective and inclusive diversity and inclusion program without being seen as too 'woke' or edgy. The key is to create a program that reflects your company's values and culture while promoting diversity and inclusion in a meaningful way.
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With over 25 years of experience in corporate and board leadership, including the past seven years focused on supporting the LGBTQ+ community and women's rights, I am available to speak, mentor, or consult for your next gender-related event. Please contact me at cynthiafortlage@cynthiafortlage.com with any inquiries.