Racial Equity, Diversity, and Equality in the Workplace.
The death of George Floyd in police custody sparked a wave of protests that extended throughout the United States and worldwide. For most individuals and business owners, the pressing question is: What can we do to deal with racial equity, diversity, and equality?
Today, let’s talk about it.
Understanding racial equity
The truth is that black minorities have been discriminated against. The first step towards achieving racial equity starts in the hiring process. Hire the right person for the job, regardless of their skin color or background. If you have African American candidates that are better qualified than the rest, hire them.
It is also essential to include anti-racist policies in the contracts signed by your employees. That way, they will know that discrimination against minority co-workers or customers will not be welcome in the workplace. It is usual for employers to think that employees know that by default. They don’t, and sometimes they need to be reminded.
Understanding diversity
Diversity is “acknowledging differences among employees and creating an inclusive environment that values those differences. A workplace that practices diversity employs individuals from various races, ethnicities, religions, and genders.” The benefits of following diversity practices in the workplace include:
- capturing a more significant consumer market,
- employing a qualified workforce,
- reducing employee turnover
- and developing a more innovative workplace.
Use diversity as part of your marketing (promotion videos, posters, etc.). It will show that your business supports them. It will also make your minority employees feel included and part of the family.
Understanding equality
In the USA, federal laws prohibit discrimination in the workplace under the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972. The businesses that promote equality do not base hiring/firing decisions, compensation, promotions, and other benefits on employees’ race, sexuality, gender, age, religion, or national origin. They also promote equal pay and protect disabled workers.
Final thoughts
Actions speak louder than words. It is important to understand the history, to analyze personal biases, and to build empathy and respect for others. When you measure employees by their contributions, they feel motivated and thrive. If you are committed to creating a safe, equal, and diverse business, be genuine about it. It will result in high employee morale and the ability to recruit top talent.
All men and women are equal, and thus deserve the same amount of opportunities.
It is our duty as business owners, and human beings, to do everything we can to make it possible.