Avoiding Workplace Discrimination In The Wake Of Mass Violence

The morning after any kind of mass violence playing on loop on every media outlet poses unique challenges to employers and managers. Not only can workplace conversations turn uncomfortable and potentially inappropriate, but trauma that is not adequately addressed can have a direct impact on workplace productivity.  How can an employer respond to emotional discussions while being sensitive to employees whose racial, religious, sexual, or ethnic identity was a focus of the underlying attacks and is a subject of media attention?  Many employers feel inadequately prepared; while sensing that silence leaves a vacuum in which conversations about the "news" may be awkward and result in misunderstanding or trample on sensitivities, they may not have thought about how to address such unfortunate situations.  Addressing the issue head-on can provide employees with the sense of support needed to prevent workplace disputes.