Valuing Diversity: The Benefits of Difference

Canada, and urban centers in general, have become increasingly diverse in terms of population demographics. Immigration and globalization has resulted in multiple ethnic, racial, cultural, religious, sexual and language representations within limited geographical areas. These diverse presentations are evident within our schools, everyday society and in our workplaces and have created multiple challenges. The benefits of these differences however, significantly outweigh the perceived challenges.

This workshop will examine some of the contemporary ideas regarding diversity in the workplace. We will focus on the multiple ways in which diversity and difference are represented within urban centers and identify ways in which agencies can most effectively create inclusive environments and draw (positively?) from the multiple aspects of difference represented in our society.

This is a highly interactive workshop where participants will explore their personal understandings of difference and the way in which these personal views affect the manner in which we address difference.

Participants Will Learn:

• Identify the multiple aspects of diversity and difference
• Develop an appropriate vocabulary to discuss diversity
• Examine the historical and contemporary discussions of diversity and difference
• Identify the multiple disadvantages to excluding diversity
• Identify the advantages of creating inclusive work environments

Who Should Attend:

• Social and Health Service Agency Workers
• Board Members
• Program Managers & Leaders
• Program Coordinators

Workshop registration limited to those currently employed with or in a governance position with a non-profit agency.