Is Tokenism Related to Diversity?

From the Huffington Post, America Ferrera states, “Tokenism is about inserting diverse characters because you feel you have to; true diversity means writing characters that aren't just defined by the color of their skin, and casting the right actor for the role."

What is tokenism diversity?

Tokenism is the practice of making only a perfunctory or symbolic effort to be inclusive to members of minority groups, especially by recruiting people from underrepresented groups in order to give the appearance of racial or gender equality within a workplace or educational context.

What is the difference between tokenism and inclusion?

Inclusion is a continuous process that must last – long after these employees are hired, because when it is absent, that is when tokenism reigns. Tokenism is a forced form of diversity that creates a superficial appearance of equality without truly achieving it. It lacks the inclusive behaviors that matter.

Alexander Ross

Alexander Ross

Gaming, Esports & Interactive Media Writer

Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.