This is a discussion thread. The student must then post 2 replies of 250- 350 words. Each reply must incorporate at least 1 scholarly citation plus the text and Scripture reference in current APA format. Any sources cited must have been published within the last five years. Acceptable sources include the textbook, the Bible, and scholarly sources.

Form a response to:

"As a representative for the Human Resources Department tasked with expanding diversity and inclusion within our organization located in Austin, Texas, due to our unique location, we must first observe and understand the culture, ethnic, and religious diversity of our current workforce. Texas is known for having a wide variety of demographic groups, and conducting employee surveys, diversity audits, and identity surveys will help us identify the gaps in our current organization and the gaps in representation (Cascio, 2022). Expanding our candidate pool, and attracting diverse groups, along with DI programs, we can have a larger inclusion (Armstrong et al., 2020).

In promoting an inclusive workplace culture, as the senior human resources manager, I will be recommending the implementation of ongoing D&I training programs that help everyone understand and identify unconscious bias and cultural awareness (Cascio, 2022). As mentioned earlier, due to our unique location in Austin, Texas, I would like to see the growth and creation of more employee resource groups to provide support for those groups that are currently underrepresented. Also, I would like to motivate the leadership group to commit to setting goals and holding their peers accountable (Aust et al., 2020). I believe this is essential to promote a truly inclusive culture and diverse growth within our organization (Aust et al., 2020).

Genesis 1:27 says "God created mankind in his own image..." emphasizing the worth of everyone, regardless of background. "Love your neighbor as yourself..." as Mark 12:31 tells us, to care and love everyone as we do ourselves. These two verses will set a standard and guide new policies that promote justice and equity, making sure that every single employee in this company is treated with respect and dignity."

Form another response to:

"Diversity and inclusion are very important in the workplace. Diversity can have positive and negative effects on project productivity for many reasons. If there is more diversity within an organization there is a potential for language barriers and a lack of trust. On the other hand, "a group of people with diverse ethnicity could boost productivity by contributing different effective work styles to the project, therefore allowing for a more significant inflow of ideas, which would increase productivity" (Parrotta et al., 2014Links to an external site.). The first step I would take as an HR representative is identifying the diverse pool of trainees and recruit them to the organization. The second step I would take is to provide resources for the recruits in order to make the career transition as smooth as possible. The third step I would take is developing a meaningful relationship with the individuals. The fourth and final step I would take is developing policies to enhance diversity within the company. As a human resource representative, making the new recruits feel welcomed is very important.

As a human resource representative, I would start by setting realistic goals for the company. A great method for promoting a diverse workplace culture is by being inclusive and open with policies, training, and languages. Having policies that discourage negative discrimination can help to promote a more diverse workplace. Including how to handle diversity in the training sessions will make the company seem very inclusive. Educating team members about the different languages that will be used can make communication better between team members. If team members are able to communicate better, relationships will get stronger. "Defined as an individual or team's perception that they are safe to take interpersonal risks and be open and authentic at work, psychological safety is ultimately about how one believes others will respond when they put themselves on the line at work' (A. Edmondson, 1999). Authenticity and openness is a great way to promote a diverse workplace. If team members feel that they can be this way, it will promote more diversity within the organization.

I would integrate a biblical worldview on diversity by reminding all team members that we were all created in the image of God. God is the creator of all things. It is important to remember that we are caretakers of the resources that he provides for us, such as each other. "Humans were created in the image of God" (Gen. 1:26Links to an external site.). This is an important bible verse to remember during these circumstances because it reminds everyone to be patient and kind when there are changes in the workplace."