Lack of opportunity, diversity drives dissatisfaction among mid- and entry-level foundation staff

In a universe build from the paths carved from our ancestors, we have evolved tremendously. From a growing economy, to updated technology it is all very impressive how each community has worked to affect each other. However, a topic that is still very impacting to today’s society is the idea of racism. Without falling into specifics, it is still common to find a divide between races especially in the business/work field.

Many employees feel that they do not have the potential to move up in a work environment because of the way they are treated by their employers. At times, employees respectfully request to get moved up, but are denied because of being part of a minority group. While discouraging, it can also be financially deteriorating when individuals feel they are being stripped of the potential that their education has brought them towards. “Particularly at the entry levels, staff are either told that there is no room for them to move up, or they are told that there is room, but find that in practice it is not true.” (Wiley, 1)

With the concept of decent work it is simply unjust to create environments where people decide to obey the national standard of getting an education, but are still belittled of their talents because of their cultural background, which is something they cant control. “For foundation staff who identify as members of historically marginalized communities, daily life at work can be exhausting. Many feel that their institutions don’t allow them to show up as their whole selves, or in some cases even to talk about issues like race, class or sexual orientation.” (Wiley, 2) Many employees may feel trapped and suffer from a lack of decent work and opportunity after following the nations guided path.

It is also very common that employees are unhappy with where they are at work. “The survey shows that most foundation staff are proud to work at their institutions and satisfied with their workplaces. Yet only 22 percent see a future at their current institutions. And over half see themselves leaving philanthropy within five years.” (Wiley, 2) While some families are seeking financial help from the government without any desire to work, others are willing to and have the credentials, are still being taken away of their opportunity to work despite this.

The support for those looking to improve is lacking and the nation is failing to provide economic support to the correct people.

Works Cited

Wiley, P. (2018) Lack of opportunity, diversity drives dissatisfaction among mid- and entry-level foundation staff, Non-Profit Business Advisor, Vol. 349, 1–3