Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Meaning & Definition

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is the process that brings together employees with all types of backgrounds, identities, and experiences as a workplace model. When you talk about diversity, you’re talking about people who have different characteristics; when you talk about equity, you’re talking about treating people fairly and giving them access to opportunities; and when you talk about inclusion, you’re talking about creating a safe space (workplace) for people to be treated with dignity and to have the chance to fully contribute to your organization.

Important aspects of DEI

• Improving a culture in which individuals are treated fairly, respectfully, and inclusively.
• Builds trust, engagement, and belonging among employees.
• Encourages the use of different perspectives around the table to paint different innovations and make better decisions.
• Attracts, retains, and develops a diverse workforce.
• Builds an employer brand, making it more competitive in the marketplace.

Legal Regulatory Considerations

In India, the equality rights protected by federal law (Articles 14, 15, and 16) provide a foundation for DEI because job applicants cannot be discriminated against due to religion, caste, gender, place of birth, or any other reason. 

Non-discriminatory practices must also be followed by all employers as per the Rights of Persons with disabilities act 2016, and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Act 1989, in any applicable situation. In the private sector, DEI is based on HR policy rather than a single federal statute, but compliance with equal opportunity standards must be maintained.