ABSTRACT
Traditionally and historically, people of European ancestry have tended to dominate public and private sector organizations, with men of European ancestry running them. Public sector organizations have recognized that a diverse workplace is a critical ingredient for continued success. As government workforces become increasingly diverse, public employers are poised to improve the way in which government operates and is perceived by the general citizenry. Effectively managing diversity is not only sound human resources practice, but it makes good "business" sense. Successfully managing diversity is a challenging process, but with a clear vision, careful planning, strong leadership, and a willingness and commitment to change, government can develop a competitive advantage as an employer and a producer of services to the American people. In addition to organizational-level reforms, however, the government has the further responsibility of working to alleviate one of the most pernicious obstacles to successfully managed and run diversity programs-disparities in the educational system.
