Date & Time
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
   |   
7:00 am
PDT
   |   Live Event

The workplace brings together many types of people of many different backgrounds, each with their own perspectives and particular needs. Similarly, global markets and shifting demographics are forcing organizations to recognize a broader variety of different types of customers and constituents. For businesses, government agencies and nonprofits alike, it is a challenge to recognize and address these different groups of individuals properly. But what happens when these different groups have competing or even diametrically opposed interests? This session examines these issues in the context of religion, disability and sexual orientation. Some of the suggested themes and questions include the following:

  • What are the major challenges and opportunities that companies face regarding customers and workers of a (religious/disabled/GLBT) background?
  • How should organizations best deal with problems that may arise in the workforce or marketplace as a result of interreligious differences or as a result of opposition to GLBT rights (e.g., partner benefits) or special religious accommodations (e.g., specially designated prayer rooms)?
  • How would you grade most companies’ efforts to accommodate people with disabilities?What more should organizations do beyond the letter of the law?
  • What role, if any, should government play in these issues?

Panelists:

  • David Haase, Littler Mendelson
  • Eliza Byard, GLSEN
  • Nadine Vogel, Springboard Consulting
  • Sylvia Alston, HSBC

Moderator:

  • Lois Cooper, Adecco

 

Speakers

David K. Haase

Shareholder