Inclusion is a critical aspect of creating a diverse and equitable workplace, but it is often confused with simply being nice and showing kindness. While these qualities are important, they do not necessarily equate to inclusion. Inclusion is about creating a workplace culture where all employees feel welcome, valued, and respected, and where diversity is celebrated and promoted through equitable policies, practices, and opportunities.
It’s important to make this distinction because being nice and showing kindness are individual actions, whereas inclusion requires systemic change. Simply being nice to someone does not address the underlying issues of discrimination and inequity that exist in the workplace. Inclusion requires a concerted effort to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and respected for all aspects of their identity – for who they truly are.
So, how can you act in an inclusive way, rather than just being nice?
Have a sensor for noticing inequities and doing something about it. Having a sensor for noticing inequities involves paying attention to language, behaviour, and social dynamics in the workplace, and being able to identify when something is contributing to a culture of exclusion. Inequities can be subtle, and it can be easy to overlook them if you’re not paying attention. By having a radar for noticing inequities, you can become more aware of the issues that exist in your workplace and take action to address them. This can involve speaking up when you see unfair behaviour or language, for example.
Once you have honed your ability to notice inequities, be an ally. An ally is someone who actively supports and advocates for members of underrepresented groups. This means taking action to challenge unfair behaviour or language and creating opportunities for underrepresented voices to be heard. By being an ally, you can help create a workplace culture that is more inclusive and equitable.
Inclusion is about creating a workplace culture where all employees feel welcome, valued, and respected, and where diversity is celebrated and promoted through equitable policies, practices, and opportunities.
While being nice and showing kindness are important qualities, they do not necessarily equate to inclusion all on their own. Inclusion requires a concerted effort to create a workplace culture that values diversity, promotes equity, and provides equitable opportunities for all employees. By having a radar for noticing inequities and doing something about it, you can help create a workplace that is more inclusive and equitable for everyone.
Ready to take the next step towards building a more inclusive work environment? Inclusive Kind can help! Contact us today for more information.