Haze
The EU has established May as Diversity Month in order to raise awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and across our societies. The main goal is for companies to adopt proactive measures to help build equal and inclusive environments and fight discrimination for the benefit of all.
Indeed, more diversity and inclusion in the workplace leaves less room for discrimination, which improves the well-being of individuals and society in general. But how?
1 The sum of the different points of view of the world, which come from each individual's background and perspectives, leads to a diverse society.
2 When diversity is celebrated by embracing the expression of every individual's unique identity, we contribute to creating an inclusive society, which leads to an increase in the sense of belonging and self-esteem.
3 Feeling that we are worthy and part of a diverse group reduces motivation for prejudice and discrimination, as we are less prone to having explicit and unconscious bias.
4 When we socialize and connect with one another as part of a diverse and inclusive environment, our stress balance decreases, improving our physical and mental well-being.
So, without diversity and inclusion, there is a higher risk of anxiety, depression, and other health issues. However, the reverse is also true: stress and anxiety in the workplace can increase prejudice and harassment, which damages perceptions of self-worth and encourages discrimination.
This is why it is important to take care of our own well-being while being open to working and living in a diverse and inclusive environment, as it is beneficial for all!