Description
Book SynopsisDiversity in business and other organizations has been a goal for more than a quarter of a century, yet companies struggle to create an inclusive work place. In Reinventing Diversity, one of America''s leading diversity experts explains why most diversity programs fail and how we can make them work. In this inspiring guide, Howard Ross, uses interviews, personal stories, statistics, and case studies to show that there is no quick fix, no easy answer. Acceptance needs to become part of the culture of a company, not just a mandated attitude. People still feel alienated because of their race, language, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, or culture. Many of these prejudices are unconscious and exclusions unintentional. Only through challenging our own preconceived notions about diversity can we build a productive and collaborative work environment in which all people are included.
Trade ReviewI applaud Howard Ross for raising the issues, for bringing his heart, soul, spirit and passion to an issue he has devoted much of his life to. We have no choice but to embrace diversity, and Howard says we must confront our own biases in that embracing, and in our effort to construct a more inclusive society. His words ain't nothing but the truth, embracing my Ebonics. This is mind-expanding and important work. -- Julianne Malveaux, President of Bennett College for Women
In ReInventing Diversity, Howard Ross explains that creating what he calls "Organizational Community" requires vision, which sounds like a platitude. Then we read on to discover that vision is much more than sight, or even foresight. Vision involves an intense level of focus and planning that anticipate the role of diversity in the globalized 21st century. If Howard Ross didn't exist, we'd have to invent him. Or at least reinvent him. -- Kojo Nnamdi, Host, The Kojo Nnamdi Show, WAMU FM, Washington DC
Howard Ross’ global and academic experiences are artfully reflected in this book. His insights and guidance make this a must read for anyone wanting to create culturally inclusive community in organizations. I plan to make it required reading for leaders wherever I go. -- Rosalyn Taylor O'Neale, VP, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer Campbell Soup Company
ReInventing Diversity is a true reflection of Howard Ross’s heart and soul and his decades-long commitment to transforming human relationships. This book not only challenges us to think differently about diversity and inclusion, but it also points to a new direction about how we can overcome the lines and barriers that divide us. As a civil rights leader on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality, I use these lessons daily. -- Joe Solmonese, President, Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
This book, like Howard Ross, is brimming with substance and soul. It is an important work that invites courageous conversations and difficult dialogues with ourselves and with others. Page after page offers us the wisdom, inspiration and tools we need to be effective advocates for diversity and inclusion. At last, here is the book we have been waiting for! -- Johnnetta Betsch Cole, President Emerita of Spelman College and Bennett College for Women
Table of ContentsOne Song Introduction: A Personal Journey Chapter 1: Why Does It Matter? Chapter 2: Why Most Diversity Programs Haven't Succeeded Chapter 3: The Background is Background Chapter 4: The Conundrum of Community Chapter 5: Uncovering the Background of Diversity Chapter 6: Transforming Cultural Competency Into Competitive Advantage What is Cultural Competency? Chapter 7: Paradigm Shift Two, How Can We Know Bias When We Can't Even See It In Ourselves? Chapter 8: Memes, Myself and I: Understanding Perceptual Identity Chapter 9: Developing Diversity Mastery: Understanding Your Wiring Chapter 10: "It's the System, Stupid!"Paradigm Shift Three: Moving From Events to Culture-Based Systems Change Chapter 11: The Eight Basic Principles of Organizational Community Chapter 12: Creating Cultures that Work Chapter 13: Walls Come Tumbling Down Chapter 14: A New Way Home Endnotes Acknowledgements Bibliography Index
