ajcjobs > BlogBreak > Archives > 2006 > November > 27
Monday, November 27, 2006
Is religion taboo in the office?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
While our religious beliefs and the effects of our spirituality on our daily outlook can be an important part of who we are in our jobs, bringing our religious beliefs to work with us can be a difficult proposition.
What place does religion and spirituality have on the job? I’m not taking a stand either way; I’d just like to know the state of affairs in today’s workplace.
What’s acceptable and what’s “legal” in terms of religion and work? I don’t mean that your actions cannot portray your religious beliefs - actions often speak so much louder than words - I mean when you openly share your beliefs with others in the office or on the job site, what happens? Is this ok?
Sharing beliefs can range from outright proselytizing to just a casual mention in an isolated situation. In today’s workplace sharing beliefs may be either strongly supported or highly discouraged by the leadership of your company or organization. Obviously if you work in a faith-based organization, it’s much easier to be open with your beliefs and share them with co-workers. In other organizations, the effect of sharing your beliefs can range from encouragement to disciplinary actions or outright firing.
To what extent should religion, religious beliefs or spirituality have a place in the workplace? Many people of many faiths find that their spiritual beliefs help them to cope with daily life and make a difference in handling stresses and dealing with others at home and on the job. Spirituality cannot be separated easily from whom we are and how we carry out our job functions.
I’ve seen studies that indicate that seven out of ten people admit that they talk about religion at work. These discussions can range from finer points of religious beliefs and doctrine to ministering to co-workers with personal struggles. Other discussions can involve witnessing and recruiting others to a particular religion or practice.
Obviously, religious discussions at work may be misinterpreted or experienced as discrimination. In September 2005, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Preliminary 9-Month Report found religious discrimination charges increased 3 % from the comparable period of 2004. Whether these complaints are valid or not, the possibility of feeling attacked or discriminated against is there.
In an ideal world, we would hope that the workplace environment would be one of valuing diversity and respect for the beliefs of others. What is the experience of religious discussion or spirituality in your workplace? Does religion or spirituality have a place at work or should we all just avoid the topic at all?
