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Faith and Business Talk at the BYU Business Society Spring Luncheon April 21st
Some US companies are embracing religious diversity as good for people and for business.
Religious diversity: Corporate obstacle? Or asset?
April 1, 2022
By Kathryn Post
For decades, there has been an unspoken ban on religious discussion in the workplace. And no wonder: Deeply held beliefs, not to mention religious dress or practices, can become a powder keg in corporate lunchrooms no less than at family gatherings.
But thanks to the nation’s expanding religious diversity and the recent surge in workplace diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, the business world’s unofficial taboo on religion might be waning. A growing contingent of businesses have begun talking about religion as an asset, rather than a divider.
Eboo Patel, founder of Interfaith Youth Core, said that in the last three years he’s seen an exponential increase in the number of companies coming to IFYC to consult on religious diversity. Since 2019, “one phone call a year became 12, 15, 20 requests a year,” said Patel. “Walmart, Alliance Bernstein, Edelman, Starbucks … A whole set of places, from banks to PR firms to retail, reached out to us and asked us to engage on religious diversity questions.”
Brian Grim, president of the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation, told Religion News Service that “every week” he hears from a new Fortune 100 company asking how to approach religious diversity in the workplace. “There’s been a massive change in the past three to five years in some of the world’s biggest and best companies towards embracing religion as part of their overall diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives,” said Grim.
Some recognition of religious diversity is as simple as serving kosher or halal food in the company cafeteria or offering floating holidays, so days off don’t revolve exclusively around the Christian liturgical calendar. For years, companies have offered faith-based employee resource groups, or ERGs, that allow workers to organize around their religious identities.
But some companies are going further, sponsoring religious literacy trainings and hiring interfaith chaplains for in-office counseling or spiritual support.
The companies’ motivations aren’t solely benevolent: There’s a business case for religious diversity that’s connected to overall diversity efforts and to what employees want out of their workplaces.
“Markets and market potentials are driven not only by what marketers try to get people to buy, but by these cultural and religious factors and values,” Grim said. “So businesses realize that to work in tomorrow’s marketplace, understanding religion is really important.”
Paying attention to employees’ religious practices can allow them to feel more valued, develop better working relationships and ultimately to be more productive, Grim added. This can be an edge in a globalizing workforce: While institutional religion is declining in the U.S., a 2015 study from Pew Research Center projected that globally, the world’s religious populations are on the rise.
Younger American generations continue to become more religiously diverse; they’ll expect employers to accommodate religious differences. According to a 2020 study from the Public Religion Research Institute, the median ages of white Protestants, white Catholics and Black Protestants in the U.S. are all in the 50s. In contrast, the median ages of unaffiliated people, Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims are in the 30s.
Patel observed that religious awareness can also appeal to clients. “If you’re a Starbucks in Dearborn, Michigan, where there’s a significant Muslim population, why wouldn’t you open at 4 a.m. during Ramadan?” asked Patel, who notes that many Muslims rely on IHOP for their pre-dawn breakfast during the month of fasting.
“Why wouldn’t you be the place where Muslims are going for their final cup of coffee before the day of fasting begins?” he asked.
Some companies have been promoting religious diversity for decades. Intel started its Christian employee resource group in 1995; Texas Instruments followed in 2000. But Grim said even companies that embraced ERGs early are renewing their emphasis. Craig Carter, who heads an alliance of faith- and belief-based ERGs at Intel, told RNS that the company has continued to add such ERGs, including atheist/agnostic and Baha’i groups, and last year added one for Hindus.
The ERGs are increasingly not there to please employees alone. Google’s Inter Belief Network, an ERG launched in 2017, plays a role in adapting Google’s products for religious audiences, including “Doodles” (Google’s alterations to its homepage logo) for Christmas, Hanukkah and even the Taoist/Buddhist Ghost Festival. The Buddhist chapter helped improve the translation of Tibetan religious texts for Google Translate.
Siraj Akhtar, a Texas Instruments employee since 2000, told RNS via email that the company’s conscious hospitality toward Muslims and other religious groups leads employees to invest in the company long-term. “For Muslim employees the idea that you don’t have to hide your faith or your practices, but can openly display them, is very appealing,” said Akhtar.
He pointed to the serenity rooms that are found in all of Texas Instruments’ major buildings. “Having a place where you can perform these (daily prayers) right where you work is something that sets TI apart and has been a huge influence for many who have joined the company.”
Chaplains are another way to weave religion into the corporate sphere. Greg McBrayer, an Anglican priest, is both American Airlines’ chief flight dispatcher and a company chaplain. “I’m not there to proselytize or convert people, I’m there to support them in moments of need,” he said. McBrayer sees himself as a “spiritual first responder” who can bring the “ministry of presence” to any difficult situation, regardless of the spiritual perspective of those involved.
At Tyson Foods in Arkansas, Chaplain Kevin Scherer oversees Tyson’s roughly 100 chaplains, including a Muslim as well as chaplains from most Christian denominations, who serve team members from more than 80 countries.
“Good chaplaincy doesn’t operate from the starting place of the chaplain’s religious faith orientation, but by being present and asking good questions to understand the religious diversity of the team member they’re taking care of,” he said. All of Tyson’s chaplains are equipped to minister in a pluralistic setting, he added, including to people who are not religious.
RELATED: Are today’s seminarians tomorrow’s corporate leaders?
Despite recent leaps in the accommodation of faith, religious diversity efforts lag far behind other kinds of diversity measures. “It’s not even close to where race, gender and sexuality are,” said Patel. “But it’s grown. If race, gender and sexuality were at a 5, and now is at a 9, religion work was at a 1, and now is at a 2.5.”
Leaders’ fear of exacerbating workplace divisions still casts a shadow, experts said. Some are also concerned that, done poorly, religious diversity initiatives can tokenize members of different belief groups without changing workplace culture.
Carolyn Chen, author of the new book “Work Pray Code,” said faith-based ERGs can provide important spaces for religious minorities in what is often an unnamed but normative white, Christian culture. “Yet when you provide these spaces, it can be like, you check the box and you’re done. It can be a way of dealing with diversity, giving people a space without changing the status quo,” Chen said.
Carter said he is frequently asked whether formalizing different religious groups at Intel causes problems. “Having or not having a formal faith ERG does not stop or start a person from having their personal beliefs,” Carter said in an email. “They will always be there. Recognizing they are there helps the employee feel included, valued personally, and that they can be real at work.”
For those wary of religious diversity, Patel says it’s better to address it head-on. “Religion is divisive, and I imagine there are a number of C-suite-level people who are not going to touch it,” he said. But these days the alternative to a proactive program, he said, is likely to “let conflict or bias land on your desk.”
National Medal of Honor Museum Unveiling Special Event at American Airlines
What an honor to be part of this special event at the unveiling of Flagship Valor with 14 Medal of Honor recipients and hundreds of special guests at Hangar 5. This historic event was part of the groundbreaking ceremony of the National Medal of Honor Museum being built in Arlington, Texas. WELL DONE American Airlines! A very special thanks to Randy Stillinger, the American Airlines Honor Team, DFW Airport Chaplaincy and all Volunteers. God bless you all!
Registration is open for the RFBF National Faith@Work ERG Conference 2022
American Airlines sends 63 WWII Veterans to Peral Harbor for 80th Anniversary
I was truly blessed to provide the departure benediction and be part of this historic anniversary event
American Airlines Names Christian Employees Resource Group - EBRG of the Year
An American Hero Comes Home - Army Chaplain Fr. Emil Kapaun - Medal of Honor - Venerated Saint
Today was one of the most memorable days in a long career and ministry, as our American Airlines Honor Team, many Priest, Bishops, friends and others, gathered to provide what we call a Dignified Transfer in honor of an American Hero, Army Chaplain Fr. Emil Kapaun. Father Kapaun died over 70 years ago in a Korean Prisoner of War Camp while faithfully serving his men till the end of his life.
Father Kapaun received the Medal of Honor and has been venerated a Saint in the Roman Catholic Church. His remains were recently identified and arrived at DFW Airport this morning at sunrise, from Hawaii to transition to his Kansas home. Pictured is the water cannon salute of call sign flight, Shepherd II, arriving in the same Boeing 777 that we flew Pope Francis in as Shepherd I in 2015.
his very moving event takes on a whole different meaning if you will take the time to view the video link below which tells Fr. Kapaun's remarkable story. Special thanks to Randy Stillinger and all who made this very special day possible, God bless you all, and may God bless America!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=JxopaDbjGEQ
Father Kapaun received the Medal of Honor and has been venerated a Saint in the Roman Catholic Church. His remains were recently identified and arrived at DFW Airport this morning at sunrise, from Hawaii to transition to his Kansas home. Pictured is the water cannon salute of call sign flight, Shepherd II, arriving in the same Boeing 777 that we flew Pope Francis in as Shepherd I in 2015.
his very moving event takes on a whole different meaning if you will take the time to view the video link below which tells Fr. Kapaun's remarkable story. Special thanks to Randy Stillinger and all who made this very special day possible, God bless you all, and may God bless America!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=JxopaDbjGEQ
911 A Day Like No Other; Ministry Redefended!
The birth of Corporate Chaplaincy at American Airlines
Click to attend the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation 911 Event Special ZOOM Event 9-9-21
The growing future of Faith at Work in our world today!
Senator James Lankford & Senator Chris Coons Discuss Religious Freedom and Business with Dr. Brian Grim
Senator James Lankford & Senator Chris Coons Discuss Religious Freedom and Business with Dr. Brian Grim
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The Case for Faith's Impact on the Bottom Line In Business
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Click Photo to learn more about the 2022 RFBF REDI Index
American Airlines Christian EBRG (Employee Business Resource Group)
recognized by the Religious Freedom and Business Foundations 2021
REDI Index as the second most faith inclusive of fortune 100 company's.
Christian EBRG Global Leads and DEI team receive REDI Index award 2021
Airports Step Up Mental Health Assistance as Passenger Anxiety Soars
ATL & DFW Airport Chaplaincy Directors talk about impact on travelers.
Click the link below!
Chaplaincy at Work: the "Final Frontier" of Missions
Congressional and Corporate Chaplains: First Reaponders to America's Crises
Annual North Texas Field of Honor Event for our Military and First Responders
Fr. Greg and the American Airlines Honor Team - Honoring a US Army Medal of
Honor Recipient Ron Rosser transitioning through DFW to his final resting place
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Bringing the Priesthood into Corporate America - July Article: The Chapter
https://nashotahchapter.com/nashotaharticles/erywdp6vfy8topuo3a9222qm65ljke
https://nashotahchapter.com/nashotaharticles/erywdp6vfy8topuo3a9222qm65ljke
DFW Rambler Article - Ministry Guides Airline During Covid-19 Crisis
Ministering in a Pandemic at American Airlines
The Employee Business Resource Groups (EBRGs) are an important part of the culture at American. Team members with similar interests collaborate to create positive change within American and their communities.
During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, EBRGs have gone above and beyond to offer resources to those in need. For instance, Generation Now is holding a virtual trivia fundraiser to support the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The participants answer trivia questions and for every correct answer, they’ll donate grains of rice to the WFP. The initiative will run through April 24.
Winston Lam, Senior Specialist in Inclusion and Diversity says the impact is being felt across American. “We have 170 EBRG chapters throughout the system at 19 domestic stations and 11 international stations. Some events are specific to our hubs, like DFW and PHL, but many like the fasting fundraiser and virtual Do Crew have been designed so team members everywhere can participate.”
Members of the Muslim EBRG are skipping their lunch and donating it to the American Airlines Family Fund so team members experiencing hardships have food for themselves or their families. Visit Jetnet and search for the American Airlines Giving Portal to follow their lead and support this initiative. Those donating are asked to type in “fasting fundraiser” in the notes section when they donate.
Along with monetary donations, the EBRGs are offering spiritual support. The IOC is hosting a Monday Morning Prayer Convocation every week sponsored by the Christian EBRG. Named and anonymous prayers are welcome. Father Greg McBrayer is also available for counseling and spiritual guidance around the system.
The Professional Women in Aviation (PWA) EBRG in PHL partners with MANNA, an organization that provides nutrition to aid patients who are fighting serious illnesses. They are looking for volunteers who are willing to spend three hours a week writing notes of encouragement for sick patients. The PWA is also trying to leverage unused amenity kits to support students who are a part of City Year, a non-profit organization focused on educational equity.
If you are looking for ways to give back, be sure to regularly check the events calendar to see where and when volunteer opportunities are taking place. Now more than ever, EBRGs are proactively finding ways to make a positive impact on team members and their communities. The effect of their work will be felt by all involved for many years to come.
During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, EBRGs have gone above and beyond to offer resources to those in need. For instance, Generation Now is holding a virtual trivia fundraiser to support the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The participants answer trivia questions and for every correct answer, they’ll donate grains of rice to the WFP. The initiative will run through April 24.
Winston Lam, Senior Specialist in Inclusion and Diversity says the impact is being felt across American. “We have 170 EBRG chapters throughout the system at 19 domestic stations and 11 international stations. Some events are specific to our hubs, like DFW and PHL, but many like the fasting fundraiser and virtual Do Crew have been designed so team members everywhere can participate.”
Members of the Muslim EBRG are skipping their lunch and donating it to the American Airlines Family Fund so team members experiencing hardships have food for themselves or their families. Visit Jetnet and search for the American Airlines Giving Portal to follow their lead and support this initiative. Those donating are asked to type in “fasting fundraiser” in the notes section when they donate.
Along with monetary donations, the EBRGs are offering spiritual support. The IOC is hosting a Monday Morning Prayer Convocation every week sponsored by the Christian EBRG. Named and anonymous prayers are welcome. Father Greg McBrayer is also available for counseling and spiritual guidance around the system.
The Professional Women in Aviation (PWA) EBRG in PHL partners with MANNA, an organization that provides nutrition to aid patients who are fighting serious illnesses. They are looking for volunteers who are willing to spend three hours a week writing notes of encouragement for sick patients. The PWA is also trying to leverage unused amenity kits to support students who are a part of City Year, a non-profit organization focused on educational equity.
If you are looking for ways to give back, be sure to regularly check the events calendar to see where and when volunteer opportunities are taking place. Now more than ever, EBRGs are proactively finding ways to make a positive impact on team members and their communities. The effect of their work will be felt by all involved for many years to come.
Interviewed by the RFBF President on the differences between 9/11 and COVID-19
Ministry Redefined: Ministering at American Airlines through a Global Pandemic
Our Easter Prayer Cross has been filled twice as start this unique Holy Week
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Click on the link below for a recent article published by ramblernewspaper
https://ramblernewspapers.com/2020/03/national-conference-emphasizes-faith-in-the-workplace/
Click on the link below for latest article on inaugural Faith@Work conference
10 Surprising Mental Health Statistics From 2020
By Morgan Solomon-Maynard on November 5, 2020Mental health and substance use challenges look different for each person affected. No challenge or diagnosis is exactly the same, and some mental health challenges can be difficult to recognize. It can be easy to generalize or make assumptions, but realities vary, and these challenges can impact more than you may think.
Studies show that mental health in the United States is worsening among all age groups. While this is because of a number of factors, one fact stands out: Many people are not receiving the treatment they deserve. Stigma around mental health and lack of access to care are driving many people away from getting the care they need.
Over the years, a great deal of work has started to reduce the stigma of mental health and there’s been progress in making these conversations feel “normal.” Today, as COVID-19 has impacted all of us in different ways, discussions around mental health are becoming increasingly common, and more people are reaching out for help.
Check out these statistics to better understand what mental health and substance use challenges look like in 2020:
You can help. Get trained in Mental Health First Aid today. As a trained First Aider, you will be able to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders in your community.
You can #BeTheDifference.
By Morgan Solomon-Maynard on November 5, 2020Mental health and substance use challenges look different for each person affected. No challenge or diagnosis is exactly the same, and some mental health challenges can be difficult to recognize. It can be easy to generalize or make assumptions, but realities vary, and these challenges can impact more than you may think.
Studies show that mental health in the United States is worsening among all age groups. While this is because of a number of factors, one fact stands out: Many people are not receiving the treatment they deserve. Stigma around mental health and lack of access to care are driving many people away from getting the care they need.
Over the years, a great deal of work has started to reduce the stigma of mental health and there’s been progress in making these conversations feel “normal.” Today, as COVID-19 has impacted all of us in different ways, discussions around mental health are becoming increasingly common, and more people are reaching out for help.
Check out these statistics to better understand what mental health and substance use challenges look like in 2020:
- In late June, 40% of U.S. adults reported struggling with mental health or substance use.
- One in six U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year.
- Half of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.
- Depression alone costs the nation about $210.5 billion annually.
- The average delay between onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment is 11 years.
- Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among people aged 10-34 in the U.S. and the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.
- Many people suffer from more than one mental disorder at a given time. In particular, depressive illnesses tend to co-occur with substance abuse and anxiety disorders.
- More than 70% of youth in the juvenile justice system have a diagnosed mental illness.
- Transgender adults are nearly 12 times more likely to attempt suicide than the general population.
- The most common mental illnesses in the U.S. are anxiety disorders, which affect 40 million adults (18.1% of the population).
You can help. Get trained in Mental Health First Aid today. As a trained First Aider, you will be able to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders in your community.
You can #BeTheDifference.
The Religious Freedom & Business Foundation and The Catholic University of America are hosting first ever national conference of faith oriented Employee Resource Groups Feb. 13-14, Washington DC.
Follow The Religious Freedom & Business Foundation at https://religiousfreedomandbusiness.org/
American Airlines Works to Keep Passengers SafeDFW Airport — Most people who travel by air simply get on a plane, read a book, have a drink and trust the plane will land safely. But there a great deal involved behind the scenes that passengers rarely see. Reverend Greg McBrayer, a chief flight dispatcher with American Airlines (AA), a chaplain and the…
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DFW Airport Chaplaincy recognizes major supporters with Ministry of Presence awardsThe DFW Interfaith Chaplains held their annual Ministry of Presence Awards in the Hyatt Regency DFW Airport on December 13. These awards recognize the men and women who have gone above and beyond to keep the Chaplaincy open and available to DFW Airport travelers who may need spiritual comfort.
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Power of Prayer: DFW International Airport Interfaith Chaplaincy
Power of Prayer: DFW International Airport Interfaith Chaplaincy
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, Texas (KLTV) - At the start of the holiday travel season, countless East Texans will be among the passengers navigating crowds at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Despite the airport being one of the busiest places on Earth, people are finding their faith inside one of the five DFW Airport interfaith chapels.
Ministry Redefined - The Apostle Magazine
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