DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE - Laura Cortes

 

Canada is frequently referred to as an immigrant-friendly nation that embraces diversity and multiculturalism as a national policy. But more and more Canadians are speaking out against everyday racism, institutionalized racism, and racist crimes, some of which have lethal repercussions. When an employer or other business stakeholder treats a person differently, excludes them from activities, or otherwise restricts their freedom because of their race, ethnicity, or physical traits, this is known as racial discrimination. Racism encompasses more than just racial prejudice as an experience and practice.

To combat prejudice, Canada has robust legal frameworks and human rights institutions in place. In addition, we have a history of racism, primarily against Aboriginal people, but also against other racial and ethnic groups, such as African Canadians, Latinos, Chinese, Jews, and Muslims. This heritage continues to influence our systems and structures today, having an impact on everyone in Canada, including those who experience racism. Regardless of race, nationality, or culture, workplaces should strive for the diversity and inclusion of all people.

Lack of inclusion and diversity at work limits opportunities wastes the human talent necessary for economic advancement and increases social conflicts and injustices. Racial discrimination in the workplace would be eliminated, resulting in diversified workforces that would give businesses access to the limitless talent pool needed for any successful enterprise. The government and society must seek objective solutions for racial diversity in the workplace with fair and appropriate working and hiring conditions to combat racial discrimination in business.  Another effective measure is to involve the private sector in strengthening and developing training programs on racism and its implications in the workplace. It is important to train and keep all personnel informed. Constantly review and update corporate policies to verify that they are against racial discrimination and that they favor inclusion and cultural diversity.

To end racial discrimination and harassment in the workplace and to increase the equal participation of those most at risk of prejudice, governments should create, execute, and finance national plans and public policies. Businesses should look for ways to support codes of conduct and equality plans to aid in the creation of diverse work environments. They should also support good employment practices by providing training, conducting internal perception studies, funding specialized training programs, and offering financial incentives to businesses that hire a diverse workforce and those that take positive action.

However, after researching and studying the issue, I believe that the most crucial point is that no one should remain silent in the face of bigotry. There will always be a place to turn for assistance if you need to stop it from happening or try to regulate a situation like this at work. The misconceptions that are based on racial or cultural distinctions must be dispelled for people to see that we are all equal and that neither the color of our skin nor the characteristics of our culture determine whether we are good or bad. We have seen how not only indigenous peoples face racism in the workplace, but minority communities have also felt the brunt of this social cancer. We all must join efforts to prevent anyone from feeling discriminated against. And I am not only talking about skin color, I am talking about discrimination by thoughts and cultural differences. We must always stand up and speak out. Our voice will never be in vain if we use it to protect ourselves and the people who need it.

References

Benson, Garry. (2022, Jan 7). Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging explained in 1 minute. Retrieved from Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVSdA9S3RUQ

Guider. (2021). Reverse Mentoring at Deloitte. Retrieved from YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpSJB1VpYlM

Havethattalk. (2019). Are You New to Canada? Retrieved from Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWncedQEp1s&t=6s

Phillips, (2021). Call to Action on Anti-Racism, Equity, and Inclusion, Canadian Human Rights Commission. Canada. Retrieved from https://policycommons.net/artifacts/2031875/call-to-action-on-anti-racism-equity-and-inclusion/2784318/ on 19 Oct 2022. CID: 20.500.12592/9h6xh8.

World Economic Forum. (2021). Accelerating Racial Justice in the Workplace | Jobs Reset Summit 2020. Retrieved from Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/worldeconomicforum