The standard working week in the UK was originally structured to accommodate the religious practice of the Christian faith. Despite a decline in the number of active Christians, Christian festivals like Christmas and Easter continue to have a place in our calendar and are recognised by employers without difficulty or conflict, but do we afford other cultures the same understanding and respect?
Holy days and religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year and there may be some notable differences in the way religions are expressed for example through dress and dietary needs, or in other ways which are less obvious. Recognising and respecting diversity in the workplace means that everyone should feel comfortable and accepted. Employers generally find that being aware of cultural and religious beliefs makes good, positive business sense and the best way to make staff tolerant of other cultures is to lead by example.
Accommodating various cultures in the workplace
It is important that employees do not feel that any religious group within the workplace is treated less or more favourably than others in any way. An awareness of cultural differences and recognising where cultural differences are at work is perhaps the first step towards understanding each other and establishing a more positive environment.
Non-verbal communication
”Treat others as you would want to be treated” is a well-known proverb based on the assumption that you would like to be treated with respect and dignity and that this would be afforded to others in return. But what does respect look like? And does it look the same for everyone? Although different groups may share similar values such as respect, honesty, or tolerance how those values translate through an individual’s behaviour may be very different. A good example of such differences is the use of eye contact. In English culture some eye contact is required, but too much makes people feel uncomfortable, so most will make initial eye contact before letting their gaze drift to avoid staring. Arab culture finds too little eye contact disrespectful, in South Asia direct contact is regarded as rude and aggressive while some see it as an indication of honesty. Eye contact between men and women in some religions’ is seen as being flirtatious or threatening so avoidance would be regarded as respect for women from the same culture, whilst western women may find this behaviour rude or evasive. This is just one of many examples of how behaviour may be perceived differently by other cultures challenging our assumptions about the “correct” way of doing things. You can positively encourage understanding by providing information about different religions and cultures and holding training sessions to promote understanding and inclusion.
Dress and appearance
Dress and appearance may cause some difficulty where the requirements of the employer and role conflict with religious dress rules of the employee. The way people dress can also be very divisive instantly labelling them as being different. An employer could have a number of legitimate reasons for imposing a dress code within the work place, but where it doesn’t impact on health and safety and the employee’s ability to carry out their job, sensitivity to cultural differences may suggest there can be positive benefits to flexibility in this area.
Catering and dietary arrangements
Food is an important part of religious observance for many different cultures, varying between individuals and communities, and can be complex. Periods of fasting are also common place in some religions. When it comes to staff catering, employers may not have the resources to provide a vast range to suit all diets, but a vegetarian option is likely to fulfil the needs of all. The use of separate fridges and microwaves to store and reheat food is likely to be appreciated where there are prescribed cultural requirements about dietary restrictions.
Praying and religious festivals during working time
Certain religions require prayers to be said during the course of the day and this may also include a ritual of cleanliness, involving the washing of particular areas of the body. Where space permits employers may wish to offer the use of a room for this purpose, this would help to minimise any disruption during the course of the working day. All religions have a variety of different festivals and important dates; a manager who takes a flexible approach in trying to accommodate his staff is less likely to face disruption in the workplace from disgruntled staff.
Legal implications
It is wrong to discriminate against individuals based on a person’s religion. Current regulations do not state that employers must provide time off or facilities for religious observance in the workplace, but an employee may be able to take action where their employer fails to adopt a reasonable and practical approach in considering requests which are made. You may wish to consult with your HR department for more information about diversity and company policies relating to this.
Embracing diversity does not guarantee a harmonious working environment and there will always be some issues and challenges to face, but ignoring diversity is likely to cost time and money and could result in legal action.
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