Addressing diversity in flux

What is it about?

This paper explores how diversity management research can be enhanced by focusing on identity work, negotiation, and intersectionality. Traditionally, the field has centred on visible differences, such as race and gender, relying on external perspectives that limit deeper insights. Through a review of over 300 studies published between 1987 and 2023, the authors identify gaps, particularly in understanding deeper aspects of diversity, such as personal values and the role of meso-level stakeholders (like managers and teams) in shaping identities.By integrating insights from various disciplines, the paper proposes a new, inclusive lens that emphasises the interaction between individuals and organisational dynamics, aiming to advance diversity management beyond surface-level differences and capture the complexities of identity in the workplace.

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Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This paper is important because it challenges the traditional, surface-level approach to diversity management by highlighting the need to consider deeper, less visible aspects of identity and the role of meso-level stakeholders. By integrating insights from multiple disciplines, it proposes a more nuanced framework that acknowledges how individual identities and group dynamics interact, offering a more comprehensive understanding of workplace diversity. This shift is crucial for developing more inclusive practices and policies, as it moves beyond one-dimensional views of diversity to address the complex realities of identity negotiation in organisational settings.

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