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What efforts are being made by government entities and private organizations to promote racial harmony and equality in the workplace?

Ramiro Mosen

There is no denying that promoting racial harmony and equality in the workplace remains a top priority for government entities and private organizations alike. Indeed, given the growing awareness of the negative impacts of discrimination and racism, it is no wonder that both of these groups are looking for ways to do their part to promote a more fair and equitable society.

One of the ways in which government entities are working to promote racial harmony and equality in the workplace is by implementing laws and policies that protect workers from discrimination. For example, in the United States, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that protect employees from discrimination based on race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, and disability. Similarly, in the UK, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is tasked with promoting and enforcing equal rights and equal opportunities for all.

Private organizations, on the other hand, are focusing on educating their employees and creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace culture. This can take many forms, including diversity and inclusion training, diversity and equity committees, and employee resource groups. By taking these steps, organizations can help to promote understanding and respect among workers of different races and backgrounds, creating a more cohesive and harmonious work environment.

One example of a private organization that is working to promote racial harmony and equality in the workplace is Starbucks. In 2018, the coffee giant closed all of its US stores for an afternoon of diversity training after an incident in which two black men were arrested at a Philadelphia location. The training, which was attended by approximately 175,000 employees, focused on topics such as implicit bias, racial profiling, and cultural sensitivity. Additionally, Starbucks created a new policy that allows people to use its cafes and restrooms even if they do not purchase anything, a move designed to make its spaces more welcoming and inclusive to people of all races and backgrounds.

Another example is the management consulting firm McKinsey & Company, which has made diversity and inclusion a core part of its corporate strategy. The company has set ambitious targets for increasing the representation of people of color in its workforce, as well as creating a more inclusive workplace culture. McKinsey has also developed a range of diversity and inclusion initiatives, including an internal program designed to promote the development and advancement of black employees.

Overall, it is clear that both government entities and private organizations are making concerted efforts to promote racial harmony and equality in the workplace. Through laws, policies, and initiatives designed to create a more inclusive and diverse work environment, these groups are helping to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed and thrive. This is a vital step towards building a more just and equitable society for all.