Looksism and Diversity

Objective - To identify how appearances affect bias.

Time - about 30 minutes.

Equipment - flip chart and markers for each group

Instructions:

Divide the class into small groups — about 4 learners to a group and issue each group a flip chart and markers.

Each group will make two flip charts. One will be titled "How prejudices and bias focus on the physical characteristics of people" and the other will be titled "How prejudices and bias focus on the dress and makeup of people".

Under each title they will list how people are hindered for not meeting a group's or organizational standards (norms).

Coach the groups as they work their way through the exercise. These are some of the items that might be listed:

Physical Characteristics

Dress and Makes Up

After the small groups have worked on the activity for about 25 minutes, bring the groups together and have each group present their findings.

Discuss what is fair and legitimate to ask of people when it comes to workplace norms about physical characteristics and appearances:

Next Steps

This activity is based on the chapter, Diversity

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