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The Big Picture

Often when one hears the term "diversity" one thinks solely of race and/or gender and thus equates it with affirmative action or equal opportunity.  While both concepts - affirmative action and equal opportunity - are essential tools to ensuring systemic equity and fairness, neither inspires nor fosters cultural inclusivity and respect.
In order to fully understand the focus, motivation and drivers of diversity, one must be able to differentiate it from its predecessors.  To assist you in grasping the concept of diversity, refer to the table/chart below.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EQUAL OPPORTUNITY TOLERANCE DIVERSITY
ESTABLISHED 1965 1963, 1964, 1967, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1990 Circa 1980 Circa 1980
MISSION Open Doors & Provide Opportunity Ensure Fairness & Equal Access Open Minda & Create Awareness Inclusivity, Respect & Trust
GOAL Opportunity Equity Awareness Value
FOCUS Qualified women & people of color Title VII, ADEA, ADA, et al. Valuing difference Acceptance and respect of all of the uniqueness of all individuals
MOTIVATION Legal Legal Social and moral responsabilty Competitive presence & Increased globalization
METRICS AAPs, OFCCP Desk Audits OES, EEO-1s, Compensation Surveys, Self-Audits Awareness Training Satisfaction and/or environmental surveys, leadership assessments
DRIVERS Government Judiciary Society Market
RESULTS More women & people of color Uniformed approach to selection processes and employment practices Mutual respect Added value to corporate strategy; greater competitive advantage
REQUIREMENTS Strict compliance Systemic adherence Mutual Accommodations Cultural paradigm shifts