Who is responsible of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace?

The responsibility for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace ultimately falls on the employer, who must:

• Develop a comprehensive anti-harassment policy and ensure that all employees are aware of the policy and how to access and use it.

• Ensure that all employees, especially managers and supervisors, are well trained in the policy specifically and on harassment in general.

• Maintain an effective system for reporting, investigating, and documenting claims of harassment.

• Ensure that no instances of retaliation occur.

Even though the employer is ultimately responsibility for preventing harassment, all employees, including supervisors and managers, must also do their part to help with prevention, including:

• Maintaining a professional attitude.

• Treating all others with consideration and respect.

• Refusing to engage in any disruptive or negative words or actions.

• Reporting or filing a complaint regarding any instances of harassment as soon as possible.

• Refraining from taking adverse action against an employee who has reported harassment.