Equality, Diversity, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is a topic that is more important and relevant now than ever. Everyone has heard of it and has some opinion regarding it. Some consider it just a corporate buzzword used for marketing purposes, while others openly disagree with it. However, for some people, EDI policies are the only way to ensure they have their rights and can live fairly and with dignity. You may not think about it, however, EDI has a great significance in your everyday life without you realising it. Here are four reasons why Equality, Diversity and Inclusion should matter to you.
1. EDI Policies Make You More Employable
Companies are actively seeking individuals who can work effectively in diverse teams. Research indicates that firms with diverse teams and open-minded individuals outperform competitors by 36% (McKinsey & Company, 2020). Companies are looking for people who can work in a diverse environment, with people of different races, genders, cultures, or sexualities. Working in a safe environment can lead to better decision-making, improve business performance, and provide a happier work-life.
Being EDI-aware and understanding other people’s needs shows your maturity and emotional intelligence. It suggests that you can work effectively with diverse types of people and understand individuals outside of your company, such as different consumer groups. It is an excellent asset valued by many modern firms that can help you secure a job at your dream company.
Additionally, UK law ensures the protection of diverse individuals. The Equality Act 2010 prohibits employers from discriminating in the workplace, including during the hiring process.
2. It Helps You Become More Adaptable and Creative
Spending time with diverse people not only helps you understand the importance of EDI, but it also allows you to be more imaginative! Exposure to diverse cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives can be a valuable source of inspiration for your creativity, offering a fresh way of thinking. This is the reason why modern businesses value inclusivity – diverse teams consistently generate more innovative ideas.
From the student perspective – think about our university. One of Westminster University’s best aspects is its diversity. You get the chance to meet people from all around the world and discuss your different cultures. Moreover, you have a fantastic opportunity to learn what life is like in other countries from the perspective of a person who lived there – something that you will not find easily on the internet. This enables students to learn from one another and gain insights that they may never have considered before.
3. EDI Improves Daily Life and Wellbeing
EDI is not only a social media and marketing trend. It is something that impacts us in our everyday lives. When people feel safe and treated with dignity, they have the freedom to create amazing things. Things like the fear of being judged when being and expressing yourself are the most influential creative blocks that repress people’s natural talents, and they stop them from thriving.
Even small things, such as using appropriate language or asking respectful questions when we don’t understand something about another person, can enhance everyone’s everyday experience. It allows people not to be constantly anxious or insecure about something. It makes universities and work environments places where people can freely flourish and exchange their experiences.
EDI is not just about policies. It is the small things that we do every day that create an environment where we can thrive – including you. When you contribute, you also contribute to your future quality of life.
4. EDI Education Helps You Recognise Harmful Political Narratives
EDI education is critical to ensure that people are not influenced by harmful, often populist, political narratives. Throughout history (and even currently), politicians have used various types of minorities as scapegoats, in times of economic or social instability, as a way to justify their damaging actions or policies. Even further, minorities have often been blamed for causing instability within a country. This way, politicians usually try to escape responsibility and give people a simple reason why the crisis is going on – without taking accountability for it themselves.
A strong understanding of diverse people helps people recognise when a group is being mistreated or discriminated against. It allows people to realise when media channels are not being objective or are just straightforwardly manipulative. For these reasons, it is necessary that all of us are educated on this matter, so we can ensure that no one (including ourselves) is being manipulated or mistreated.
Conclusion
EDI is not just an idea. It is a set of skills, values, and mindsets, but more importantly, it is about people. It allows you to have your freedoms, rights and fair opportunities. From being more employable to boosting your creativity, to improving your wellbeing and protecting you from harmful policies, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity benefits us in ways that we don’t consider on a daily basis. You don’t have to be an expert on this topic to have a significant influence. Even words or small gestures can contribute to creating a better world and a brighter future for everyone, including you. For more information visit: https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/discrimination/