diversity smoke screen
Posted on 05. Mar, 2010 by Seth in lifestyle
words > TRACEY GARRETT
Common Perception: In today’s society, we feel we’ve come a long way in terms of being tolerant of each other’s differences…and we have. Race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, political beliefs, religious beliefs, or other ideologies have become taboo subjects in our politically correct society. Gone are the days of discrimination. No longer will the freaks of the world be pushed aside. (LOL!)
Diversity in the workplace allows us to explore our differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment, according to the definitions you’ll find online. Wow, I don’t know about you, but that sounds great! Is diversity in the workplace a reality or just a bunch of political mumbo jumbo to satisfy government regulations? I believe it’s a little bit of both.
Neo-Perception: Okay, yes. I agree that we’ve come a long way since my parents’ generation. As a society, we are more accepting of others’ differences. It’s no surprise to see the disabled, or those who show respect for their religion by the way they dress; it’s even become common to see a walking tapestry of tats and piercings behind the counter of many Wichita businesses. Are these places really providing a safe environment for their employees to discover and respect each other’s differences? I have NEVER seen it happen yet, but I keep my hopes up that our future generations will pull their heads out.
I spoke with several people who have been, or are considered “different.” They are from the Gay and Lesbian community, disabled, and for some, their skin isn’t the right color, etc. They come from all walks of life, but all of them agreed, diversity in the workplace sounds great, but is rarely true to its government definition. Great, so what do we do?
Keep moving forward. If every one of us tried to get to know at least one person a month that was considered “different” from ourselves, we could make diversity on all levels true to its definition in record time. Not to mention how someone “different” from ourselves can enrich our lives in ways we never knew possible.
Scared? It’s only natural when we face change. I know I’m looking forward to a day when the big concern in the workplace is normal personality conflicts. Conflicts that NEVER have anything to do with being gay or having different colored skin, or by what name you call your God. Screw diversity, it’s a matter of respect. Respect for yourself and respect for others.
