Lessons learned from Diversity Beyond Labels training

We Create Here was an initiative within the Gazette Company to develop evolving narratives and authentic conversations throughout Iowa's Creative Corridor. read more

There are many ways people are different. There is value in discovering how we are similar.

These are just a few of the lessons learned and reinforced through the new Diversity Beyond Labels online training. The training is the result of a partnership between Diversity Focus and Kirkwood Community College.

Diversity Beyond Labels

 is designed to give all Corridor companies a chance to train employees in the areas of diversity and inclusion.

The brief but complete three-part online training provides a definition of diversity. Here are a few of the main ideas I was most struck or surprised by.

1. Even positive stereotypes limit our ability to understand others.

2. Perceptions influence actions.

3. Are we willing to change and grow?

4. Fairness is not necessarily equality.

5. Follow the "platinum rule" and treat others as they want to be treated.

6. There is a difference between the original intent of a statement or action and the actual impact it has.

7. What daily actions can improve diversity?

8. One way to improve diversity in the workplace is to help co-workers understand why certain actions may be innocently offensive.

Kirkwood plans to work with Diversity Focus to eventually tailor the training to specific industries such as education or law enforcement. For more information on the training, contact Amy Lasack, Kirkwood's director of training and outreach services, at amy.lasack@kirkwood.edu.