Building bridges to inclusion: A case study of conflict in a diversity advisory group

This observational case study examines the effects of intergroup conflict experienced by a diversity advisory group (DAG) as it attempted to create and implement a diversity program for a nonprofit health care agency. I hypothesize that internal diversity advisory groups are microcosms of an entire organization, and therefore are excellent laboratories for understanding the organization's readiness to foster an environment where diversity and inclusiveness are valued. The PDE begins by examining the efforts of one agency which had a clear need to increase the diversity of its staff in order to better serve its clients and maintain state and federal funding. The conflict and confusion that befell the committees established to create and implement the diversity strategy are common among diversity advisory groups. It is the nature of this conflict that was the focus of this PDE.;My research was conducted in a naturalistic setting with me as an observer and member of the DAGs. This research was conducted during prolonged contact with Success Project's DAGs and covers more than two years of observations. The intent of the research was to understand the causes of the conflict and to develop strategies to alleviate affective conflict in future diversity efforts. The agency's effort to create and implement a diversity plan began in 1995 when Success Projects* created a 5 year strategic plan; a significant module in the plan included the creation and implementation of a diversity program The agency received a grant from a special funding and technical assistance program designed to increase the diversity of nonprofit staffs and boards of directors. One requirement for receiving the grant was that the grantee form a diversity advisory committee. This study explores the organizational structure of the agency and its response to the conflict It also describes incidents of conflict that erupted during meetings of the second DAG, which was created after the first one was disbanded in failure, and the result of those episodes on the committee's ability to complete its mission. This research project includes recommended educational resources to prepare the agency for organizational change and conflict management Finally, lessons learned are documented as part of a strategic plan to alleviate affective conflict in future diversity efforts.;*The name of the organization has been changed to protect the privacy of its clients.