Diversity Mosaic
by Tina Rasmussen, PhD
Published by Pfeiffer
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Reviewed by Celia Renteria Szelwach, DBA (ABD)
Subtitle: The Complete Resource for Establishing a Successful Diversity Initiative
In Diversity Mosaic, diversity expert Dr. Tina Rasmussen draws on more than twenty years of experience to offer a comprehensive resource for planning and implementing successful diversity initiatives. She defines diversity as "the mosaic of people who bring a variety of backgrounds, styles, perspectives, beliefs and competencies as assets to the groups and organizations with whom they interact" (p. 7). The reader will note that Rasmussen defines diversity broadly, leaving no group excluded.
This resource is organized into three parts, Part One: Preparing Yourself; Part Two: Establishing a Successful Diversity and Inclusion Initiative; and Part Three: Developing Leaders and Employees.
Section highlights include:
-- The business case for diversity and the cultural competence scorecard
-- The six-step Diversity Enhancement Process for planning and -- -- Delivering cultural competence and leading diversity workshop
Dr. Rasmussen's view of diversity and inclusion is refreshing. Instead of separating white males from other "minority groups," the author believes the key to true inclusiveness lies in the full integration and unification of all groups since diversity of experience, perspective, and demographics is common to all. She acknowledges that groups typically singled out in diversity initiatives (i.e., white males) are as diverse as any other demographic. I completely agree.
The Diversity Mosaic resource includes a well-written and organized administrator guide that highlights Rasmussen's approach to building inclusive cultures. The guide is tabbed and includes a table of contents and introductory sections that lead the reader through her diversity methodology quickly and easily. Quotes, tips, figures, and charts complement the content effectively.
The resource also includes a handy CD filled with reproducible and customizable forms and templates for individual diversity initiatives. Two high quality participant workbooks on Leading Diversity and Developing Cultural Competence round out the Diversity Mosaic resource nicely making it an incredibly valuable and easy-to-use resource.
Diversity Mosaic is highly recommended for diversity professors, consultants, trainers, and anyone interested in creating a more inclusive work culture.
Armchair Interviews says: This is a must have for any professional training and performance library.