A while ago, my aunt told me this story about why diversity and inclusion in the workplace is important. So, I wanted to share it with you. She used to be the Membership Director at a local community organization. As the Membership Director, her job was to attract new members, help them complete applications, and welcome them into the organization’s community.
One day, she came across something she had never faced before. A gay couple tried to apply. As the first gay couple reviewed the application, they noticed that there was physically no place for them to apply. There was a place for a “Male” and a “Female” applicant only.
They questioned whether this organization would be welcome in their community.
I mean, if the application isn’t inclusive, would the people be?
When they asked, she said, “Look, you’re in the south. I can’t imagine everyone anywhere you go will be accepting of you. And, I can’t promise that they will be. But, I will be accepting of you. And I will do my best to make you feel welcome.”
Shortly after, my aunt took a hard look at the application forms and realized she needed to make a change. She went back and adjusted the forms to read, “Adult 1” and “Adult 2.”
I think the saying, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me,” is not the lesson we should be teaching. It doesn’t teach kindness, it teaches “getting over it.” And, boy do we need a lot more kindness right now.
The truth is language matters. It’s a reflection on who we are and who we accept and even what we accept. Whether it’s spoken from person to person or written on job application or a membership application form or any other HR form, language sets the tone and sends a big message to the readers.
Another truth is it’s not that hard to make a change. Here – let me show you. *Log into computer program, delete-delete-delete, type-type-type, print-print-print.* With a simple wording change, my aunt opened the doors to an entire community of potential members who probably didn’t feel like they would be accepted before. It wasn’t even hard to do.
When it comes to our workplaces, more people need to take initiative. It’s okay to be the first to do something. It’s okay to a trailblazer. It’s okay to be the first to say, “I will welcome you.” It’s okay to do something you’ve never done before in the name of kindness.
I’m so proud of my aunt for being that person who paved the way to make others feel welcome. If you have a similar story you’d like to share, please leave a comment below. We’d love to hear.
If you’re looking for underrepresented HR leaders and executives to hire and follow, check out these 30 Top Black HR Influencers.