By Meenakshi Vuppuluri
The spring of 2022 witnessed a significant awakening in the tech world when Thenmozhi Soundararajan, a Dalit rights advocate, faced discrimination for her scheduled talk on caste at Google News. This incident brought to light the pervasive issue of caste-based discrimination within corporate environments, challenging the notion that it is confined to rural India. Recent events, including the cancellation of Soundararajan’s talk and subsequent actions by major tech giants, have ignited a crucial conversation about the urgent need for inclusion and anti-discrimination policies in the global corporate landscape.
Caste Discrimination Goes Global in Corporates
Contrary to popular belief, caste discrimination has infiltrated major tech corporations worldwide. Equality Labs, a South Asian civil rights organization, received over 250 unsolicited complaints against colleagues at prominent companies like Google, Netflix, Amazon, and Facebook. These complaints ranged from casteist slurs to discriminatory hiring and firing practices, sexual harassment, and intrusive inquiries into individuals’ caste backgrounds, even in the United States. The alarming number of cases underscores the deep-rooted nature of caste discrimination within seemingly progressive and inclusive workplaces.
The Google Debacle
Thenmozhi Soundararajan’s canceled talk at Google News in April 2022 serves as a poignant example of the challenges faced by advocates against caste discrimination. The opposition from some upper-caste employees, deeming her views as anti-Hindu, not only highlighted the resistance to addressing caste-based discrimination but also questioned the commitment of global corporations to fostering inclusivity and diversity.
Apple Takes the Lead
In a contrasting move, Apple made headlines by becoming the first company in the United States to incorporate an anti-caste-based harassment policy. This proactive step sets a precedent for other companies, signaling a shift toward creating a workplace environment free from discrimination based on caste.
Caste Discrimination in Hiring and Firing
Equality Labs’ complaints brought to light discriminatory hiring and firing practices based on caste. Individuals reported facing career obstacles due to their caste backgrounds, with some even being targeted for termination once their caste identity was revealed. It emphasizes the urgent need for companies to address systemic biases within corporate structures. Additionally, job descriptions should encourage candidates from Dalit, Bahujan, and Adivasi communities to apply, reinforcing the commitment to equal employment opportunities.
Creating Awareness and Education
To combat caste discrimination in corporates, investing in awareness and education programs is essential. Employees need to be educated about the complexities of caste, dispelling the notion that it is solely a rural Indian issue. Fostering a deeper understanding of caste dynamics will encourage a more inclusive and empathetic workplace culture.
Incorporating Anti-Caste Policies
Following Apple’s example, companies should actively work towards implementing explicit anti-caste policies that condemn and prohibit caste-based discrimination. These policies should outline clear consequences for engaging in discriminatory behavior, fostering a sense of accountability among employees. Additionally, companies should establish accessible and confidential channels for reporting discrimination.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
True diversity goes beyond visible differences such as race and gender. Companies must actively strive for diversity in thought, experiences, and backgrounds, including caste diversity. Promoting an inclusive workplace involves creating spaces where individuals from all castes feel valued and heard, fostering a culture that celebrates differences rather than perpetuating discrimination.
KelpHR’s Inclusive Workspace Checklist
To aid corporates in their journey towards creating an inclusive workspace, here’s a comprehensive checklist:
- Acknowledge the Issue
- Recognize the global existence of caste-based discrimination.
- Understand the importance of addressing caste discrimination in fostering an inclusive corporate culture.
- Educate Employees
- Implement awareness programs about caste complexities.
- Dispel myths and stereotypes associated with caste, promoting nuanced understanding.
- Review Hiring Practices
- Examine hiring processes for caste biases.
- Adopt inclusive language in job descriptions.
- Implement Anti-Caste Policies
- Develop explicit policies condemning caste-based discrimination.
- Outline clear consequences for engaging in discriminatory behavior.
- Establish Reporting Mechanisms
- Create accessible and confidential channels for reporting discrimination.
- Provide Diversity Training
- Conduct programs addressing caste diversity.
- Train managers to recognize and combat caste discrimination.
- Promote Equal Opportunities
- Emphasize equal employment opportunities for all.
- Base promotions on merit rather than caste considerations.
- Encourage Open Dialogue
- Foster an environment for discussing caste-related issues.
- Evaluate Workplace Culture
- Assess elements contributing to caste discrimination.
- Foster a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
- Monitor and Update Policies
- Regularly review and update anti-caste policies.
- Monitor the effectiveness of implemented measures.
- Collaborate with Advocacy Groups
- Partner with organizations working towards caste equality.
- Seek guidance from external sources to enhance corporate efforts.
- Lead by Example
- Demonstrate top leadership commitment to a caste-inclusive workplace.
- Inspire employees at all levels to actively participate in creating a discrimination-free environment.
Creating an inclusive workspace requires a concerted effort from organizations worldwide. By acknowledging the existence of caste-based discrimination, educating employees, implementing anti-caste policies, and promoting diversity and inclusion, companies can pave the way for a discrimination-free workplace.
At KelpHR, we firmly believe that cultivating safe, happy and inclusive work environments serves as the foundation for business transformation and expansion. We can help you and your organization embark on a journey towards a more inclusive and respectful workplace culture.
About KelpHR
KelpHR was incorporated in 2013 to provide the best HR solutions to organizations, and to improve workplace culture across the board. Over the last 10 years, we have serviced more than 700 clients in India and a few overseas, across various industries in the areas of PoSH (prevention of sexual harassment at workplace), EAP and D, E & I (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion). But the common objective of all these services is to build safer, happier, inclusive and productive workplaces.
For our services related to Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH), Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (D,E &I)or Employee Assistance programs (EAP) do get in touch with us at info@kelphr.com, call +91-95001-29652 and we’d be able to help you with customized offerings suited to your organization.
