Why Diversity and Inclusiveness is Important in the Workplace

By: Zachara Ormsby
In my public relations class, PRL 206, we discussed the importance of why diversity and inclusiveness are important in the workplace and why it should be discussed. We began by defining diversity and inclusivity and the ways in which public relations (PR), as a profession, is working towards becoming more diverse and inclusive in the workplace. Diversity is defined as equal respect for and treatment of differences – in regard to race/ethnicity, gender, and sexuality being the primary categories. However, diversity does not stop there, it also includes religion, disability, veteran status, nationality, social class and many more.

Diversity deals with remaining aware and sensitive to the variety of people in the PR field and diverse publics. Diversity should be viewed as an organic, fundamental part to the PR profession and consistent with the philosophy and process of the workplace, whether that is an organization, business, agency, etc. Diversity should not just be an add-on to the important work values of PR, but should be seen as a necessity that can drive innovation and provide creativity to the profession. Diversity allows for a better place to work, increases opportunities for all employees, and improves employee morale. It also allows for all individual differences – race/ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, etc. – as well as diverse skill sets, mindsets, and cultures to be counted at all levels of the Public Relations profession. Lastly, it allows for PR to show that it’s not “scared” of diversity, but actually encourages and understands the imperative for it.
 
Inclusiveness, on the other hand, encourages an environment that welcomes all people. Inclusion can only occur when there is a progressive understanding of diversity. To be included means to include ‘all’ people of ‘all’ backgrounds in the workplace no matter the circumstances of that individual. All voices need to be respected, heard, and incorporated – with a genuine respect for differences. The PR profession grows when everyone is and feels included in the workplace, which makes it important to be cognizant of the way you feel when working. If you don’t feel included, talk to someone so that they can understand the standard of being inclusive and how when everyone is included and counted for, the work environment enhances to long-term success.

​In a recent speech that I read, given by Mike Fernandez at a Public Relations PRSA conference, he discussed the importance of diversity and inclusion in PR and how it must advance in becoming more inclusive and diverse. He stated that assumptions are made when people don’t see someone that quite looks like them in a leadership position, they assume that “while they have a job today, they may never have a shot at the corner office tomorrow.” Therefore, change needs to happen. More diverse candidates should be hired and counted in the workplace as important. They should be seen in leadership roles as well and not just ‘behind the scenes’ in the PR profession.