Short Assignment: Diversity and Discrimination

In the rapidly globalizing world, a diverse working environment is something that we should expect but along with this diversity comes some negative aspects like discrimination. However, many times this goes unnoticed and at other times, those discriminated have no choice but to accept it for the fear of losing their job. Diversity is what makes you unique to a working environment. It is what gives rise to different ideas and thoughts in any environment. The legal department of many countries work hard to ensure to minimize workplace discrimination but to what extent is it actually successful?

In Canada, there are several laws in place to ensure the reduction of workplace discrimination but the thing that we need to keep in mind is that legal action can only be taken if the individual knows that they are being discriminated against and another thing that needs to be considered is that they are willing to file a complaint about it. Not always are actions taken by workplaces clearly discrimination but rather can be subtle. Even within the workplace environment, we can see a lot of indirect discrimination in the form of cliques and while no one can complain about not being included in a group but many times, these group formations are based on various biases.

Another point that we fail to recognize is a privilege. Privilege is not something we notice unless and until it is pointed out to us. Privilege is like placing someone on a higher chair than the others with similar opportunities. This is something that is only noticed when taken away or specifically realized. What you take as your right might be someone else’s dream. Being born into a stable and reputed family is a privilege, it is like winning a lottery but by asking the occupation of your family, it places those from that background at a better place than those with criminal family backgrounds. Workplaces may not generally ask what sort of a family you have but in this Internet age, nothing is too hard to find out. This can lead to uncomfortable situations in workplaces. We may find that many times even those without privileges just accept it as fate and do not make any demands or fight for change. This also allows for the indirect discrimination to continue.

Executives can claim that they do not discriminate during the hiring process but there is no requirement to give a