DEFINING DIVERSITY: THE EVOLUTION OF DIVERSITY by Camille Kapoor

1. INTRODUCTION: WHAT IS DIVERSITY? The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect. It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical ability, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies. It is the exploration of these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity within each individual (cited from
ispanics, |Women, racial minorities, |White able-bodied males, |Corporate organizations |
| |native Americans, Asians |persons with disabilities, |also non-traditional | |
| | |aboriginal people |employees | |
|Focus |Numerical representation, |Barrier elimination, |Learning about others i.e |Business and strategic |
| |hiring compliance |numerical representation, |those who are different |advantage |
| | |reporting | | |
|Cultural value |Remedy past wrongs |Egalitarianism, meritocracy |Inclusiveness, respect for |Business advantage |
| | | |difference | |
|Intended value |Representative workforce at |Fair employment policies and|Awareness of difference; |Business profits |
| |all levels; access to |practices; improved |improved interpersonal and | |
| |employment for