Written by Anna Kilander, Consultant, Quicksearch
The words are not my own - they are Lt. Gene. Jay Silveria, the head of the US Air Force Academy. The statement comes after someone wrote "Go home n****r" on a notice board. When management becomes aware of the incident, they act immediately and gather all staff and all students. The message at the meeting is clear: If you can't treat someone with dignity and respect, then you need to get out. Lt. Gene. Silveria is clear and speaks a direct, clear language. He does not look for scapegoats, he does not appoint a committee to investigate. He acts directly in everyday life and puts both himself and the entire management, physically, behind the words. He then tells us how we should do and what we should do. He asks everyone present to pick up their mobile phones and film what is being said. "This is important, everyone must understand this and live by it, otherwise you shouldn't be here".
I saw this clip before #metoo, started. In the light of what is happening, I think that it is exactly this type of leader that is needed. The fact that there are policies, laws and regulations does not matter as long as managers and management do not stand up and refuse to accept abuse and harassment.
Trampling occurs in many places in our society. WE all have responsibilities as fellow human beings to see and act - not turn a blind eye and accept.
In our employee surveys, we see what percentage of an organization feels that the workplace is not free from discrimination and harassment. In the vast majority of businesses there is zero tolerance - and it has to be. Yet what we see in the media is happening now. We must continue to dare and be able to raise the issue. Just like Lt. Gene. Jay Silveria we need to look beyond just the individual case. Dare to question cultures and norms that have become distorted. It is how we treat each other and act in everyday life that creates the culture. How we act when someone makes a mistake shows what is really important - then we can bring about a change.
How is it at your workplace - do you ask the questions and act on the answers? Do you keep track of how employees perceive you as an employer and do your employees know where they can turn if they are exposed to discrimination? At Quicksearch, we have extensive experience in measuring and following up so that it makes a difference. This spring employee survey Insight we have a battery of questions that captures all aspects of abusive discrimination and discrimination and also bullying and harassment.
Managers in an organization not only have a human responsibility, managers also have a legal obligation to see and act if there is suspicion of, or is occurring, sexual harassment or other forms of offensive discrimination. As soon as there is suspicion, rumor or observations about this, measures must be taken. As both managers and employees, it is important to set a good example and not be afraid of the consequences.
Please watch the clip from the United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School HERE.
I've seen it several times and almost tear up each time at the impressiveness of his (really) simple but clear stance and action.
If you can't treat someone with dignity and respect, then you need to get out.!
