IMD-OWP22-PostEvent-Report-V11[8]

→Diversity, Equity& Inclusion

DIVIDE OR INCLUDE? LEADING THROUGH LANGUAGE

Leaders have the ability to include or divide through language: Becoming aware of the pervasive nature of language and its impact enables leaders to be intentional about their language to create more inclusive cultures and communities in which people can thrive.

Diversity of thought, experience, and background is the spark that fuels new ideas and progress. We live in a world that is increasingly diverse, yet also increasingly polarized. In order to create inclusive societies that prosper and progress, it is important to use language sensitively and intentionally to bridge differences.

Yet, a 2020 report of 5,000 citizens in India, the US, Brazil, Germany and the UK shows that engaging in respectful dialogue with those who hold different perspectives, especially on topics of politics, race and sexual orientation, is rare and problematic. If people talk only with those who hold similar perspectives, they create echo chambers which justifies their own beliefs and does little to bridge differences.

A 2021 study from the UK, aptly named “The Diversity and Confusion Report”, showed that between 16% and 30% of people actively avoid talking about issues such as gender, religion, sexuality, race or disability for fear of saying the wrong thing.

HEATHER CAIRNS-LEE Adjunct Professor of Leadership

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