Calling Oneself and Others In: Brokering Identities in Diversity Training

Diversity training is a common initiative in organizations, yet also the focus of much debate. Legislative attempts have been made to eliminate diversity training, while research has presented mixed findings and contradictions. Although much is known about designs, pedagogies, and trainee outcomes of diversity training, we know far less about the diversity trainer, who bears the brunt of delivering training amid existing controversies. In this study, we examine the diversity trainer's experience, bringing to light the important use of the trainer's own identities in navigating the emotionally charged minefield of educating about bias and bridging across cultural and demographic differences. Through this qualitative investigation, we develop a grounded model that illustrates the process of brokering identities, a form of identity work diversity trainers engage in that involves their deliberate efforts to call themselves and others in during diversity training. We highlight the brokering self-efficacy trainers gain from their identity work, which helps to explain why diversity trainers continue to engage in the process of brokering identities despite the challenges and controversies they may face.