Broadening Our Scope on Diversity

​The recently published results from the 2020 US Census indicated that the multiracial population grew in almost every county in the US and that “the US population is much more multiracial, and more racially and ethnically diverse than what we measured in the past."
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Based on the narrative that has been associated with the new results it may lead one to believe that America is just now becoming diverse. They looked at things like race, ethnicity, and multiracial identities as the key indicators. 

 ​At MTA however we challenge the notion that America is becoming diverse. We believe that America has been diverse for generations. While we agree that the racial make-up has shifted, we believe that the key components of diversity are not reflected in race, ethnicity, or national origin. In fact, if you limit yourself to only thinking race and ethnicity when you hear the word diversity, you are missing out on a lot. When we think of diversity here at MTA we look at the human attributes that go beyond that narrow scope. We look at things like experiences, exposure, abilities, beliefs, natural talents, and skills.

Not all people of the same racial or ethnic background are the same and by using labels to identify people we miss out on the greatest contributions of diversity. Can all Black people dance? Are all Asians good in math? Do all White men like Nascar? When you lump people into categories you lose the true essence of who they are.

To give you an example, at MTA we have a team of individuals with differing racial identities and ethnic backgrounds. Whether we are from Arizona, Iowa, California, Alabama, Germany, or the Caribbean Islands each person has a different perspective. It is those differences in our cultural experiences that allow us to walk the talk. On any given subject we are able to See the World with New Eyes by leaning into the varied exposure of the whole team. We are encouraged to share our experiences and opinions openly. Because of our differences we are able to have healthy dialogs that in the end give us all a diverse look at topics. Our diversity ultimately benefits our clients.
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Our gifts, talents, and skillsets are equally diverse. One of the things that makes MTA the best at what we do in the DEI Training arena is our diversity. From our leadership to our entire team and extended to the vendors that we choose to work with, everyone is encouraged to maximize their skills. Each person making contributions based on what we do best regardless of our roles or job titles. If there is a need, and someone has the skill to fulfill that need they are encouraged to speak up and step in. Our diversity makes us better.

Case in point, our human resources manager loves to plan events, so she is our go to person for company events. Totally out of her job description, but not out of her skillset and passion.

If you are not looking at your team members beyond their job titles and investing some time to get to uncover their varying abilities, you are wasting valuable resources. Set aside time to get to know your team. Find out what their interests are, and look for the hidden skills that they hold, and discuss ways they may be utilized. Once you do, you may be surprised at what you uncover. At a minimum, you will see what we already know at MTA, America is already diverse, and our diversity is what makes us BETTER TOGETHER! 

For more information on how Moreland Training & Associates can assist you in your diversity efforts or to request an organizational assessment for your organization contact us at [email protected] and speak to an associate.

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