Pitching for true for gender parity and inclusion in the Workplace
This year’s theme of International Women’s Day is to inspire inclusion. As a woman professional and mentor to many other women, I got reflecting on the need for workplace inclusion for women specifically, even though Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) as an initiative targets all marginalised subgroups.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) has found its way into the strategic priorities of most organizations as consumers become more socially aware and sensitive to social discriminations, be it race, ethnicity, gender or any other. While all three concepts in DEI are complementary in nature, it’s important to understand the real significance of each. Diversity is about celebrating differences by having representation from a varied socio-cultural mix of people in the workplace, inclusion is about making people feel included in initiatives and equity is about the availability of equal opportunities for all members of the workplace.
My views on inclusion are especially influenced by Dr. Brene Brown, a researcher and mentor to many young people. Dr. Brown’s work explores the deeply intricate linkages between belonging and shame and guilt and love. While we as professionals often adorn our professional armors on the way to work each morning, we still carry the human side along, our senses constantly pick up on social and emotional clues, given by colleagues and by the overall organizational culture. To really feel included, one needs to feel belonged, a sense that one is an integral part of the workplace. From this perspective, the presence of equity is a pre-requisite to inclusion. Else inclusion can only be superficial.
Women, many of whom are natural leaders, often face additional challenges in the workplace. These challenges demand more flexible work arrangements and robust mentorship programs to support women as they advance in their careers. It's crucial to establish leadership development programs and support structures that empower women to excel in leadership roles and navigate the subtle, yet pervasive, barriers they encounter.
In my experiences with the Power Posse network, I've had the privilege of forming deep connections with fellow women professionals. These interactions have shed light on the subtle inequalities and biases that persist in the workplace, often in the form of glass walls and ceilings that are invisible to most but are only evident to those who encounter them. These discussions reinforce the importance of continuous dialogue, advocacy, and action to dismantle these barriers and build a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all.
As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us commit to championing inclusion in all its forms, recognizing the unique challenges women face, and working tirelessly to create environments where every individual can thrive, one in which every woman has the opportunity to lead, innovate, and inspire.
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