Diversity Philosophy

"We believe that diversity contributes to our performance, the services we provide, the communities in which we live and work, and the lives of our employees and customers.  By promoting an inclusive environment where everyone respects individuals and values the contributions of people of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, we can enrich and strengthen the quality of the products and services we deliver."

Definition

The City of Charlotte defines diversity as those human qualities and characteristics that are different among individuals and groups of people.  These differences may be race, gender, age, ethnicity, physical abilities, or religious beliefs.

Employees are expected to:

• Be aware of how their past experiences, personal values and biases affect their working relationships
• Treat others with respect and dignity
• Work to build an inclusive environment in which all employees can fully participate
• Be open to learn about others
• Contribute ideas and draw on each others skills, knowledge and backgrounds
• Recognize and challenge harassment, discrimination and culturally biased behavior

Supervisors & managers are expected to:

• Lead by example, demonstrate a genuine commitment to workplace diversity
• Seek a diverse range of views on issues
• Learn about people we work with, get to know their skills, knowledge and backgrounds
• Actively encourage staff to contribute their ideas and provide opportunities for them to do so
• Identify and address barriers to diversity
• Support staff in balancing their work and personal lives

KBE's & Leadership Team are expected to:

• Be a visible champion by communicating and promoting the benefits of diversity for the business unit
• Ensure all policies, processes and procedures support the organization's commitment to diversity
• Promote and celebrate workplace diversity successes