A historical perspective on diversity ideologies in the United States : reflections on human resource management research and practice

Abstract

We examine diversity ideologies in the United States across four distinct eras: White supremacy/ sanctioned exclusion of racioethnic minorities before the 1960s, the equal opportunity–Civil Rights era of the 1960s, the diversity management/multiculturalismera of the 1980s and 90s, and today's inclusion/post-race era. Our examination provides insight into how changes in societal beliefs and attitudes about non-dominant racioethnic groups and their status and incorporation into society have influenced the trajectory of diversity practice and research. Based on a content analysis of HRM articles published on diversity from 2000 to 2011 and demographic trends, we speculate on the next era of diversity in HRM.