Towards social cohesion : examining the role of racial diversity and inclusion initiatives in promoting racial cohesion in the workplace

Abstract

Social cohesion creates a sense of identity and belonging and is the basis for nationbuilding. It motivates groups to collaborate harmoniously and live together despite their differences. In South Africa, racial divisions hamper social cohesion. Racism, inequality and poverty exist along racial lines and racially polarising behaviours persist. Complex racial issues require stakeholders, including companies, to foster racial cohesion. This exploratory qualitative study investigated how companies’ racial diversity and inclusion initiatives promote social cohesion from the perspective of race. It examined the extent to which companies incorporate six elements of social cohesion drawn from the literature: social relations, a sense of identification, common good, shared values, equality and quality of life. Eleven semi-structured with professionals, who have designed or implemented diversity and inclusion initiatives within South African companies, showed that racial diversity and inclusion initiatives were limited to legislative requirements. Compliance-related initiatives were essential for racial equality and quality of life. The other social cohesion elements were neglected. Initiatives fostering social relations, a sense of identification, common good and shared values were superficial. Nurturing racial social cohesion requires diverse leadership, platforms for racial dialogue, frequent racial diversity training and culture change