Practice Area
06. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging (DEIB)
The research shows it, and employers are living it: diverse workforces lead to better business outcomes, and employers continue to understand how important it is to ethically prioritize diversity in their workforce. Meaningful diversity requires a solid foundation that is based on equitable and inclusive practices where employees feel a sense of belonging.
There is no single-point "solution" for DEIB, and each organization takes a unique approach. Rather, companies that navigate this best understand that it requires intentionality, dedication, care, wisdom, vulnerability, lived experiences, and time.
In addition to having better business outcomes, work cultures that effectively prioritize DEIB reduce the likelihood of complaints involving discrimination and harassment. The reason for this is two-fold: (1) DEIB efforts reinforce appropriate workplace behaviors, thereby curbing discriminatory/offensive behavior; and (2) employees are more likely to resolve grievances internally (as opposed going to the EEOC/DFEH) when they feel their company genuinely cares about DEIB.
Finally, if a private or non-profit operation is the recipient of government contracts (local, state, and/or federal), they may be subject to certain diversity and/or affirmative action standards. These standards may not only pertain to employees, but could also cover third-party vendors and RFP processes. Consequences for failing to adhere to these contractual stipulations may include, but are not limited to, substantial fines, rescinded contracts, duty to pay back funds, ineligibility to receive future contracts, court costs, and/or attorneys' fees.
PractiCali Law is experienced in enhancing workforce diversity through inclusive programming while mitigating affirmative action contract compliance risks. Here are some examples where we're ready to provide counsel relating to DEIB initiatives:
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Inclusive Work Policies
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Employee Resource Groups
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Employee Relations
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Disparate Impact Analysis
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Objective Recruiting
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OFCCP Compliance
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Government Contracts
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EEO Reporting Compliance
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USCIS Compliance
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HRIS and Data Privacy
- Inclusive Communication
- Psychological Safety
- Unconscious Bias Mitigation
- Leaves & Accommodations
- Complaint Processes
- Conflict Resolution
- Workplace Investigations
- Corrective Actions
