Much progress has been made in recent years in terms of inclusion, particularly in terms of gender and sexual diversities. However, there is still a long way to go.
Inclusion in the workforce is paramount to the vindication of the dignity of all the people who make up our society. And it is here where the role that we must fulfill from companies becomes paramount, where it is necessary to assume leadership to deliver spaces for collaboration and have internal policies that are real and effective in terms of inclusion and respect for diversity.
According to a BCG study (2021), for most people in the LGBTQIA+ community, the first year in a new job is critical to expressing their sexual orientation. This is extremely important, since it allows employees to manifest themselves freely to establish close and trusting relationships. This goes hand in hand with a good work environment, as inclusive cultures are associated with lower employee turnover and greater teamwork success.
It is not feasible to be inclusive only during June. Efforts to form a company where we are all welcome must be deep and sustainable.
The VI version of the Internal Radiography of the Pride Connection Chile Network, applied between October 2021 and January 2022, gives us light on how we are progressing in Chile in this area. According to this report, 80% of organizations have a diversity and inclusion policy, up 6 percentage points from the previous report. On the other hand, 12% are in the process of implementing a diversity and inclusion policy while 8% do not have it.
As organizations it is not enough to say that we support diversity and inclusion. We have to be consistent, bringing our words to actions and practice not just for a month, but every day. Our commitment must be to promote actions that add value both within the company and in society, from a sustainable perspective and respectful of diversity, remembering at all times that the core of our business must be built from a human perspective.
That is why it is not feasible to be inclusive only during June. Efforts to form a company where we are all welcome must be deep and sustainable, forcing us to take an active role throughout the year.
The content expressed in this opinion column is the sole responsibility of its author, and does not necessarily reflect the editorial line or position of El Mostrador.
