Glossary of Terms and Definitions

From the Conference Board of Canada Report on Diversity: Priorities, Practices and Performance in Canadian Organizations: "Diversity refers to the presence of a wide range of human qualities and attributes within a group or an organization. The dimensions of diversity include, but are not limited to, age, gender, race, ethnicity, physical and intellectual ability, sexual orientation, educational background, talent, skill and experience. Diversity is seen as a positive valued construct indicating the richness that exists when people with a variety of backgrounds, orientations, skills and experiences participate in and contribute to an organization's work environment. Diversity encompasses elements of acceptance and respect. It emphasizes the need to embrace and celebrate the varied dimensions of diversity within each individual."