December 16, 2003

SOME ORGANIZATIONAL ATTRIBUTES THAT CONTRIBUTE TO CULTURAL DIVERSITY EFFORTS

 

  • Openness.
  • Genuine respect for others.
  • "Every person thinks they are unique and, in fact, everyone is unique," says Eby.
  • Good communication. "If I hear about a problem, it is good to bring a group together and not issue yet another policy," commented Eby.
  • Recognition that one does not have all the answers.
  • Ability to challenge the Western philosophical pedagogy that is based on winning. According to Alvarado, "We must focus on the understanding that we are enriched through the collectivity of people coming together and the patience that leads one to have solutions, outcomes or plans. How do we make the space so we have full participation, from the person sweeping the floors to the one making decisions?"
  • Genuine interest in the concept of diversity, not as a checklist or "flavor of the month," but as an affirmation and valuing of individual as well as collective interests.
  • Staff pride in ownership of areas of responsibility and involvement in organizational activities.
  • Intolerance, according to Nash, of "slighting comments toward any groups or humor that might not be funny to everybody, whether it’s political jokes, gender, race, religion, or whatever."
  • Clearly articulated expectations.

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