An ally is someone who is not a member of an underrepresented group but who takes action to support that group to help make their workplace more diverse and inclusive for all.
For workplaces to become truly inclusive it is up to people who hold positions of privilege to be active allies and to take responsibility for making changes that will help others be successful.
Allies at all levels can take action with simple, everyday efforts that make a real difference and in this series, we highlight some things that you can do to be an ally and to support your colleagues from underrepresented groups.
#57: Provide A Prayer Room for your Employees to Use
A prayer room can be an important resource for employees who practice certain religions and need a quiet, private space to pray or meditate. Providing a prayer room can demonstrate the employer’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, and can create a more welcoming and supportive work environment for employees of all backgrounds. It can also help to reduce stress and improve the overall well-being of employees who use the space. By offering a prayer room, the employer is showing respect for the diverse religious practices of their employees and making a tangible effort to accommodate their needs.
If your firm doesn’t already provide a quiet prayer room (or faith room), you should consider requesting one is provided. If your firm is big enough/has enough room/space multiple rooms should be provided with a designated purpose rather than one multi-purpose room intended for different uses.
All employees should also make sure that if rooms are provided that they are used for their designated purpose (and available for people to use) – it is not an extra meeting room, storage room or a place to take a personal call.
Read the full “How to be an Ally” series here.
