The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion: Creating a More Inclusive Society

3 Historical Oddities from the USA

1. The "Whites Only" Signs During the Jim Crow Era
   
   
   • From the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, racial segregation was legally enforced in the United States under the Jim Crow laws. "Whites only" signs were prevalent in public spaces, schools, restaurants, and even public transportation. This extreme form of exclusion serves as a dark reminder of the systemic racism that has long shaped American society and underscores the importance of striving for a more inclusive world.
2. The Native American Boarding Schools
   
   
   • In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Native American children were forcibly taken from their families and placed in government-run boarding schools. The goal was to "civilize" Native children by erasing their cultural identities and forcing them to assimilate into Western society. This practice, which lasted for decades, reflects the extreme disregard for cultural diversity and the harmful impact of exclusionary policies.
3. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s
   
   
   • While the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s is often hailed as a victory for equality, it was also a time of intense resistance to inclusion. White citizens and government officials actively fought against desegregation and civil rights reforms, creating a climate of exclusion and fear. The events surrounding this period—such as the March on Washington in 1963 and the signing of the Civil Rights Act in 1964—highlight the struggle for inclusion and the long road to achieving a more inclusive society.

5 Examples of Diversity and Inclusion in Action

1. Diverse Hiring Practices in the Workplace
   
   
   • Many organizations now have diversity hiring initiatives to ensure that candidates from all backgrounds are considered for positions. This helps break down barriers that historically excluded certain groups, allowing for a more diverse workforce that reflects the population.
2. Inclusive Language in Media and Advertising
   
   
   • Brands are increasingly using inclusive language and imagery in their advertising, representing people of all races, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. This shift in advertising is helping to normalize diversity and broaden the range of voices that are heard.
3. Inclusive Education Systems
   
   
   • Schools and universities are increasingly adopting inclusive curricula that reflect a diversity of experiences and perspectives. This includes teaching about different cultures, histories, and identities, and providing accommodations for students with disabilities.
4. Accessible Design in Technology
   
   
   • Companies like Apple and Google have made significant strides in creating technology that is accessible to people with disabilities. Features like voice recognition, screen readers, and customizable font sizes ensure that all users, regardless of ability, can engage with technology.
5. Community-Based Initiatives
   
   
   • Many grassroots organizations are working to foster inclusion within communities, from advocating for affordable housing to providing resources for marginalized groups. These efforts help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in society on equal footing.

4 Tips for Fostering a More Inclusive Society

1. Educate Yourself on Unconscious Bias
   
   
   • Understanding your own biases is the first step toward creating a more inclusive world. Take the time to read books, listen to podcasts, and participate in workshops that teach you how to recognize and combat unconscious bias.
2. Be an Active Ally
   
   
   • Supporting marginalized groups requires more than just passive acceptance. Become an ally by advocating for policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion. Stand up for others when you witness injustice, and use your privilege to amplify voices that are often overlooked.
3. Practice Inclusive Language
   
   
   • Language plays a powerful role in inclusion. Make a conscious effort to use language that respects and acknowledges the identities of others. This includes using gender-neutral pronouns, avoiding stereotypes, and being mindful of the words you use in everyday conversations.
4. Create Inclusive Spaces
   
   
   • Whether at work, in your community, or online, strive to create spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued. This can involve ensuring diverse representation in leadership positions, providing accommodations for people with disabilities, and fostering an environment where open dialogue about inclusion is encouraged.

Fortify This

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to creating a fair and just society where everyone can thrive. By educating ourselves, advocating for marginalized communities, and actively creating spaces of belonging, we can contribute to a future that values and celebrates diversity. As we reflect on the history of exclusion in the United States and look forward to a more inclusive world, let’s remember that our individual actions can lead to collective change. The work is ongoing, but each step we take toward inclusion makes a difference.

Let’s commit to creating a society where every person, no matter their background, identity, or experiences, can feel like they belong. The journey to inclusivity is a shared one, and together, we can make it happen.