Often, we hear the term diversity, equity and inclusion or DEI. What does all of this really mean? The term is supposed to be about creating environments that are inclusive and fair in consideration of others’ differences. The differences include age, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and more. Equity is to ensure fair treatment of opportunities for all, acknowledging that there may be some barriers people face. This is where we foster inclusion, a sense of belonging and ensuring that all individuals feel valued, respected and have the ability to feel fully able to participate. The term lost value during the COVID time in my opinion.
I can’t help but wonder if the political climate push after COVID for DEI is why there is so much backlash in-particular regarding DEI and the workplace. The COVID era really put us in a divide on vaxed and unvaxed. COVID was an exclusion for some. I agree with DEI on its principles and feel that consideration needs to be part of the workplace principals. Fair treatment is just that considering fair treatment for all. Like most people after COVID I am a little skeptical of where all of this will go, stepping out of COVID and into a caring world. COVID changed the way we live our lives. Business had to re-evaluate the importance of finding balance between keeping a float and looking after the wellbeing of their employees and valued customers.
COVID did bring forward a fresh and new conversation on diversity and inclusion. COVID statistics have shown that 52% lower income were more likely to have lost their jobs during COVID. Older professionals were more at risk and experienced a great deal of stigma and discrimination, such as being seen too vulnerable to work. 2020 was a very big year for igniting change, the birth of the movement Black Lives Matter started that year. There was more stigma around groups during COVID such as minority groups and healthcare workers, and lower income were all adversely affected. Some of these minorities continue to be affected by COVID rules. Action speaks, if the government is going to push DEI then it needs to be inclusive from within and the decision making.
Diversity is important in the workplace to ensure diverse thinking, creativity and different experiences represented, keeping the company driving forward. Let’s be grateful for all of our differences and positive changes. COVID did teach us to be able to work from home and to recognize what more balance in our lives looks like (mostly because we did not have any balance during COVID). We all appreciate the human connection more. COVID did teach us to appreciate freedom more, safety more and how quickly it all can change.
Ref: insightsforprofessional