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 |