HRMN 495- Risk Management Audit

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I)

According to SHRM, "the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) function deals with the qualities, experiences, and work styles that make individuals unique (e.g., age, race, religion, disabilities, ethnicity) as well as how organizations can leverage those qualities in support of business objectives" (SHRM, n.d.)  Diversity refers to the presence of people who differ from each other in those characteristics within a group, while "inclusion describes the extent to which each person in an organization feels welcomed, respected, supported, and valued as a team member" (SHRM, n.d.). Inclusion requires employees to not only be able to work with each other but also understand and respect different perspectives and worldviews. 

Finally, equity ensures that all individuals have access to the same opportunities, particularly in terms of training, advancement, or promotion. While equal employment opportunity (EEO) and affirmative action are a part of this, DE&I goes beyond compliance to focusing on the advantages and opportunities in diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

References

SHRM. (2020, August 17). Introduction to the human resources discipline of diversity, equity and inclusion .