BHP is at the early stages of reviewing its policies, processes and behaviours to prevent racism in its workplace.
Policies being reviewed include how the company responds to racism; listening to employees to get a better-informed perspective on racism; establishing a racial equity working group led by Chief Commercial Officer, Vandita Pant; and building capability in company leaders to make sure they’re equipped to recognise and call out racial behaviour.
Vandita Pant, Chief Commercial Officer and Executive Sponsor for Racial Equity, said there is no place for racism at BHP or anywhere in society.
“At BHP, the diversity of our workforce is one of our greatest strengths,” Ms Vandita said.
“A workforce made up of a wide range of people from different backgrounds brings a range of different perspectives, capabilities, and overall benefits that diverse teams bring.
“We want every person to feel empowered and safe to bring their whole selves to work. This starts with the right attitude, words and actions of every individual.
“Ultimately, we know what kind of company we want to be – one where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and treated with dignity and respect.”
Vice President for Health and Hygiene, Doctor Rod Gutierrez, said fostering a diverse, inclusive and psychologically healthy workforce is what BHP aspires to.
“Racism is damaging to one’s mental health because it challenges our notion of ‘self’. It attempts to define who we are against our choice and negates our personal stories and is one of the few psychosocial hazards that has such a deep effect on our psychology,” said Dr Gutierrez.
“For this reason, at BHP, it is imperative that we work collectively to identify and eliminate racism and enable everyone to thrive and have a sense of belonging.
“We are engaging the whole business and inviting everyone to the dialogue. Together we are imagining a future free of racial discrimination.”
