ABSTRACT
Can human resource (HR) practices be used to reduce discrimination and achieve diversity in organizations? In addressing this issue, we acknowledge that discrimination and diversity are distinct concepts. Thus, achieving diversity does not necessarily involve reductions in discriminatory behavior, and the elimination of discrimination does not necessarily ensure diversity. Still, in the context of this distinction, one could view discrimination as one barrier to diversity such that its reduction and elimination can be considered as one means of increasing diversity. In this chapter, we explore the implications of research and theory on common HR practices as they relate to the topics of reducing discrimination and increasing diversity in organizations. In order to do this, we have identified two major approaches by which organizations can change their practices in order to reduce discrimination and increase diversity.
