Diversity became increasingly important starting in the mid-1960s, driven by societal movements and legal changes.
The mid-1960s mark a pivotal period when the concept of diversity began to gain traction in workplaces. This shift was propelled by the confluence of several factors:
- Civil Rights Movement: The fight for equality and justice for marginalized groups, particularly African Americans, brought issues of discrimination and representation to the forefront of public consciousness.
- Equal Employment Laws: The introduction of legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This law forced organizations to re-evaluate their hiring practices and create more inclusive workplaces.
- Affirmative Action: Government initiatives aimed at redressing past and present discrimination by actively promoting opportunities for underrepresented groups further emphasized the importance of diversity.
These factors collectively spurred the development of workplace diversity training programs and initiatives. While the concept of diversity has evolved significantly since the 1960s, this period represents a critical starting point for its increasing importance in both societal and organizational contexts.
