Diversity in Teams – Diversity Team Development Racism in the workplace 1

We all know that unpleasant feeling which rises up inside us when we hear a homophobic joke, a sexist remark or a racist insult at work or in an everyday situation, but we lack the courage to raise any protest. Dismay, helplessness, stress and also fear prevent us from taking any action. However in hindsight many possible strategies for giving a suitable response often spring to mind. By having a clear awareness of your own viewpoint and principles it is easier to credibly uphold your position. The first step towards being able to act in such situations is to understand what is meant by racism, sexism, homophobia or age discrimination. Therefore it is helpful to consider the definition of each term, against which derogatory or discriminatory jokes, remarks and statements can be measured.

Guiding questions for the definition of terminology What do the terms racism, sexism, homophobia and age discrimination mean? Who can be a victim of one of these forms of discrimination? What examples can I think of for the different forms of discrimination? What effects can be caused by a particular form of discrimination? How do the various terms differ from each other? >>> Gather your thoughts and ideas on your own or in a group! Use Google to assist you and also research well- known websites (government websites, anti- discrimination agencies…)!