ABSTRACT
Countries that are culturally diverse sometimes have a history in which one ethnic or religious group has dominated politically and economically. Cultural conflict has led to civil war and secession. It has also prompted conscious efforts to ensure employment opportunities generally and to diversify the ranks of public agencies specifically. There are strong public policy mandates to end discrimination in employment and to achieve workforce diversification. These mandates apply to all, but the smallest of employers. A socially representative staff indicates openness and access to employment and to educational and career opportunities in general. For many, the pattern of social backgrounds of civil servants, at all levels, is an important determinant of how they will feel toward government and toward a particular organization. An implication of a diverse workforce, no matter how attained, is that managers will be challenged to support and motivate their employees. The traditional assumptions of a homogeneous set of workers no longer apply.
