Black History Month is a chance to celebrate the value of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Younger workers today are increasingly choosing employers who reflect these values. Companies that embrace inclusion create stronger, more dynamic teams, and a workplace where everyone can thrive.
What Does Diversity Mean for a Young Workforce?
By 2025, around three-quarters of the global workforce will be Millennials or Gen Z – and with this generational change comes a greater emphasis on diversity in the workplace. In fact, 56% of Gen Z workers – those born after 1996 – would consider the degree of diversity in a senior leadership team a major factor in choosing to work at a company.
Job seekers are paying close attention to how inclusive a company really is. Simple things, like an all-white or all-male interview panel, can send the wrong message. Diversity needs to be built into the way a company operates, not just showcased during events or on social media.
Impact of Black History Month on Young Workers
Educational and Inspirational Impact on Young Professionals
By celebrating Black History Month, businesses can have a lasting positive impact on their employees. Workers will have a better understanding of the challenges that black people in the past have faced through history, helping to shape their identity and sense of belonging. This shared understanding can also help to reduce bias, strengthen relationships and create a more inclusive workplace culture.
Empowerment Through Diversity
When employees see their employer actively support Black History Month, it sends a powerful message that they belong and their experiences are valued. Staff who feel that the company they work for represents them, and reflects the diversity of society as a whole, are going to be more productive, motivated and develop better working relationships. There are a range of initiatives for employers that can help to make workplaces develop a diversity and inclusion strategy and become more inclusive.
Encourage Dialogue and Reflection in the Workplace
One of the most tangible differences that Black History Month can make in the workplace is the opportunity it gives for people of different cultures and backgrounds to engage with each other. Through designated sessions or just natural day-to-day interactions, colleagues can gain a deeper appreciation of someone’s culture, religion or language, and how this may affect their working life. Diversity means people of different ages, genders and backgrounds sharing experiences, opinions and ideas, helping to break down barriers and creating a more open, collaborative working environment where all perspectives are welcomed.
Get Involved and Make a Difference This Black History Month with Go Construct
It’s important to ensure that the positive impact of Black History Month does not stop in the workplace on 31 October, but continues throughout the year. Why not get involved and organise some Black History Month events where you work, and make a difference to diversity?