<
https://theconversation.com/diversity-programs-have-become-a-tick-the-box-exercise-they-need-to-become-more-political-not-less-276164>
"Diversity programs are a favourite target of right-wing populists who claim
they represent a radical left agenda that is politicising workplaces.
Our research shows something quite different. Diversity, equity and inclusion
(DEI) isn’t failing because it’s too political. It’s failing because it refuses
to be political at all.
In a study just published in the academic journal
Work, Employment and
Society, we examined DEI practices in three organisations: a national sports
organisation with around 100 staff, a technology services company with more
than 500 employees, and a community liaison agency with 70 staff and DEI as its
core mission.
They were selected because of their commitment to equality, being known and
awarded for their best practice in DEI, and being presented as an inspiration
to other organisations for how to do DEI well.
Across these very different workplaces, we found the same pattern. DEI programs
created the appearance of progress, while leaving deeper inequalities
untouched. As one participant put it:
We have the window dressing […] but behind the scenes, I can tell you, it’s
nothing like that.
Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, yet
leadership positions remain overwhelmingly held by white men, and many workers
from minority groups feel unsafe speaking up at work.
So why has DEI failed to deliver on equality?"
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
