How to Build an Inclusive Workplace? Seminar on Stereotypes and Respectful Communication Takes Place at LSIWC

On 8 September, the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry hosted the seminar “An Inclusive and Respectful Workplace in Everyday Life”, focusing on how to foster an open, respectful and inclusive workplace through everyday communication.

During the seminar, we discussed how stereotypes and prejudices are formed, how they can influence our perceptions and decisions, and how to recognise them in everyday situations. Particular attention was also given to automatic reactions and assumptions, which are not always conscious but can influence how we perceive others and communicate with one another.

To bring the topics beyond theory, the seminar included practical exercises and examples of everyday situations, encouraging participants to look at familiar communication patterns from a different perspective.

The seminar leaders, Dace Helmane and Ilze Dūmiņa, emphasised that an inclusive and respectful workplace is built through everyday communication, attitudes and cooperation – in how we listen to others, accept differences and become aware of our own assumptions.

We would like to thank Dace Helmane and Ilze Dūmiņa for the valuable discussions and practical exercises!