Cultivating Diverse and Inclusive Organizational Spaces: Creating, Planning, and Implementing Belonging in the Workplace

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to bridge understanding around a diversity framework, and how to foundationally infuse the concept of inclusion and belonging. This paper critiques and considers, what we think we know about how we define diversity, and perspectives on inclusion. Creation of inclusive workspaces requires a way of critical thinking and thoughtful synthesis. How we define and apply principles of diversity is dynamic impacting our attitudes and behaviors. At the crux of how to effectively cultivate diverse and inclusive workspaces is through respect and the recognition of human difference. Embedded within the philosophy of respecting human difference, is knowing how to expand our understanding to create adaptive solutions to address zones of disequilibrium in the creation of inclusive organizations. Through the exploration of a solutions- based framework, this paper seeks to raise awareness about our own thinking and reasoning to expand threshold for deconstructing the ideals of diversity in how organizations plan for inclusion. Additionally, this paper examines the role of equitable practice in creating an inclusive workplace, through the lens of addressing and understand how our own personal biases are informed. The examination engages the exploration of operative learning modes, practices, and expected outcomes needed for the successful implementation of cultivating diverse and inclusive organizations.

Presenters

Bev Freda Jackson
Adjunct Professorial Lecturer, School of Public Affairs: Department of Justice, Law and Criminology, American University, District of Columbia, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Organizational Diversity

KEYWORDS

Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, Organizational Culture

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