Social Justice as an Organizational Identity: An Inductive Case Study Examining the Role of Diversity and Inclusivity Initiatives in Corporate Climate and Productivity

Abstract

Although research has begun to establish the benefits of implementing disability inclusion initiatives within companies, there is relatively limited research examining the impact of applied diversity management practices in the employment of PWDs. This study explores the disability initiatives of an exemplar midwestern company through an in-depth case study. An inductive, qualitative design was utilized to identify themes from interviews with multiple employees. Interviews were examined to understand how the company’s social mission and corporate identity impacted productivity and perceptions. Results suggest that employees are drawn to the company by their social justice mission in hiring and creating meaningful employment for persons with disabilities. Moreover, the fact that the company sees this mission as a central part of its organizational identity rather than as an ancillary initiative motivates employees. Findings indicate that centering a commitment to hire and support persons with disabilities within the organizational identity, forming partnerships within the community, and connecting employees with a sense of meaning in their work generates greater productivity, engagement, and commitment from employees.