From a Child and Youth Care perspective, balancing culture with policy when planning a company event involves creating an inclusive and relational environment. We can reach this by communicating and engaging in collaborative conversations to understand diverse traditions, incorporating elements that respect all cultures, and participating in cultural competency training. By viewing individuals through a holistic lens, we can align cultural practices with company policies while ensuring flexibility where needed. Practicing reflection after the event is crucial, as it allows us to identify what worked well and what could be improved, ensuring continued learning and even discovering something new about yourself.

To balance culture and policy when planning a company event with diverse traditions, it’s important to create an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates diversity while adhering to company guidelines. Begin by soliciting input from employees about their cultural preferences and traditions to ensure representation. Incorporate elements such as diverse cuisines, activities, or decorations that reflect various cultures while remaining neutral to avoid favoring one over another. Ensure that the event aligns with company policies on inclusivity, budget, and conduct, fostering a space where everyone feels welcomed and respected. Transparency and open communication are key to achieving this balance.

Before the event, it is important to ensure that diversity and inclusion training is available to all staff. Additionally, a perspective that has been immensely valuable to me has been to shift the goal from cultural competence to cultural humility. It is impossible to be culturally aware all the time, so instead of striving to know everything, we can strive to show up as kind and genuine. Included in all of this is apologizing for our mistakes whenever possible and giving grace to others when they have misunderstandings. Once this is established, we can really begin to appreciate culture! I would encourage employees to share any aspects of their culture they feel comfortable with and have fun!

As Gladwood LLC’s co-founder, I lean on principles inspired by Dr. Robert Hartman’s work to navigate cultural and policy balance. By focusing on the intrinsic value of people, we prioritize respect for diverse traditions while aligning with company policies. This means engaging clients in open dialogue to understand their unique perspectives and needs. By identifying shared values and fostering collaboration, we create events that celebrate diversity while upholding organizational goals. It’s about building bridges—honoring individuality while driving unity and purpose.

To balance culture with policy, start with being mindful of policies. Ensure all activities comply with company policies, including alcohol, inclusion, or workplace harassment. Avoid religious or political overtones that could alienate or offend participants. The event could be used as an opportunity to educate about various traditions through storytelling, presentations, or displays. After the event, gather feedback to learn what worked and what could be improved. Use this input to refine future events. Planning a company event that respects diverse traditions while aligning with company policies is a great way to foster inclusivity and harmony in the workplace.