• Workplace diversity refers to the characteristics, beliefs, perspectives, abilities, traits, and experiences people bring to the workplace.
• Diversity exists wherever there are differences among a group of people.

Workplace diversity refers to the characteristics, beliefs, perspectives, abilities, traits, and experiences people bring to the workplace.

Characteristics include:

• Ethnicity
• Race
• National origin
• Age
• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity
• Disability
• Genetic information
• Social class
• Veteran status
• Pregnancy

Beliefs and perspectives include:

• Religion
• Opinions on various topics

Abilities is a broad category and may vary between:

• Physical skills
• Educational backgrounds
• Traits and experiences

Diversity exists wherever there are differences among a group of people. All employees share similarities and differences, and every workplace is diverse because everyone is unique. Just like no two people are 100 percent identical, no two workplaces are 100 percent identical.

Workplace inclusion is defined as the sense of belonging, connection, and community while at work. Employees in an inclusive organization commonly say they feel:

• Safe and comfortable being themselves,
• Comfortable asking questions and suggesting ideas,
• Respected and valued for being who they are,
• Trusting of their coworkers and managers,
• Heard when they express their ideas and opinions, and
• Treated fairly and have equal access to opportunities and resources that allow them to contribute fully to the organization’s success.