SHRM defines diversity as “the collective mixture of differences and similarities that includes, for example, individual and organizational characteristics, values, beliefs, experiences, backgrounds, preferences, and behaviors.

Diversity has expanded into the concept of inclusion. SHRM defines inclusion as “the achievement of a work environment in which all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the organization’s success.”

Diversity and Inclusion (D and I) has evolved from a task focused on workforce classification and reporting to a leadership strategy that is an integral part of an organization’s strategic plan. At SHRM, Diversity Management is “the comprehensive organizational and managerial process for leveraging diversity and achieving inclusion that maximizes the potential of all employees.”

SHRM Resources

• Diversity articles can be found in the HR Topics & Strategy section of the SHRM website shrm.org

• SHRM Arizona is part of the DLA Diversity and Inclusion. For more detail click here: https://www.diversityleadershipalliance.org/conference/#2020awards

Local Chapters

Diversity & Inclusion is the future and if you are ready to learn more and see how you can help your community join one of our local chapters.

The Society has a growing network of more than 450 professional chapter members and 340 student chapter members across the United States. Professional chapter presidents are automatically a member of SHRM AZ. Chapters provide:

• A forum for the personal and professional development of its members.

• A chance to develop leadership, managerial, public speaking and group decision making skills.

• An arena for the development of trust relationships where common problems can be discussed and deliberated.

• An opportunity to focus on current human resource management issues of importance to chapter members.

• Focus for legislative attention to state and national human resource management issues.

• Valuable information gathering and dissemination channels.

• A pool of human resource management leaders for perpetuation of the professional association.

• Serve as an important point of introducing and recruiting human resource management professionals into the national organization.

• Serve as a part of the two-way channel of communications between the national organization and the individual members.

Resource Contact

Elizabeth Hightower, B.S., PHR, SHRM-SCP Diversity Director United Way Tuscon ehightower@unitedwaytuscon.org