Page 19 - Anti-Racism Pocketbook for Schools and Academies
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Inclusive practices around culture, religion, and belief
In an inclusive environment, it is important for people of all
cultural environments to be able to express who they are and
their perspectives without fear of being harassed, harmed, or
judged in the workplace.
Religion/belief should be included when monitoring and
discussing equality, diversity, and inclusion. People should not be
excluded from social activities, work, and development
opportunities due to their cultural and religious beliefs.
Policy is the best way to identify an organisation's values and
expected behaviour of employees as it relates to religion or
belief.
Employers need to be aware of the meaning of religion/belief in
the employment context. Organisations should define in a policy
what behaviour is un/acceptable towards those with religious
backgrounds.
Employers that observe good practice in respect of religion/belief
can help to build a more diverse, inclusive, respectful, and
motivated workforce. An example of this would be to have a
comfortable prayer and meditation room for religious employees.
There are many stories of religious employees praying in their
workplace toilets due to a lack of private and appropriate rooms
to pray in.
Employers should think carefully about the rationale behind
implementing a dress code.
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