How to create a truly inclusive culture that changes people’s biases

Three white middle-aged men chat about the importance of diversity and inclusion and how Learning and Development can help create more inclusive connected workplaces.

With Rich and Ralph Brandt of RDR Group

When it comes to diversity trainers, Ralph and Rich are not what you’d expect. Being white males and identical twins, they’re an anomaly.

And yet, Ralph and Rich are living examples that bias can change.

Growing up with a twin had its benefits — a constant playmate, a study partner, and a friend. But it was also an insular experience.

Their natural tendency was to flock together as they went through life. Ralph and Rich tended to be less open to “outsiders” and as young children, anything different seemed foreign and uncomfortable.

To further complicate things, growing up in the early 1960s, there were no people of colour in their schools, gender roles were tightly defined and people of other religions or sexual orientations were rarely discussed.

Thankfully, a cultural revolution was coming. As they entered adulthood, Ralph and Rich attended seminary and it was there that they were met with broadening perspectives and experiences that challenged and reshaped their beliefs. From this reorienting of their views, they identified their call to make the workplace a more diverse and inclusive environment for all.

Much like they experienced, Ralph and Rich believe that becoming comfortable with people who are perceived as different requires openness and a willingness to change your tendencies and habits.

A much needed message not only for white males but for all cultural groups, genders and generations, the Brandts are committed to helping your organization change perspectives and understand the value of diversity and inclusion.