1. Policy Statement
Pro-edge Associates is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We believe that diversity enriches our organization and drives innovation, creativity, and success. Discrimination, harassment, and bias in any form are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

2. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, vendors, customers, and other stakeholders engaged with Pro-edge Associates, regardless of their position or status within the organization.

3. Core Principles

Diversity: We value and celebrate diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, nationality, and socio-economic background.
Inclusion: We strive to create an inclusive environment where every individual feels welcome, supported, and empowered to fully participate and contribute to the organization’s success.
Non-Discrimination: We prohibit discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including but not limited to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or veteran status.

4. Responsibilities

Leadership: Senior leadership is responsible for setting the tone and expectations for diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination within the organization. They are accountable for promoting and upholding these principles across all levels of the organization.
Managers: Managers are responsible for fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment, addressing any instances of discrimination or bias, and supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives within their teams.
Employees: All employees are expected to treat each other with respect, dignity, and fairness, and to contribute to a culture of inclusion and belonging.

5. Prohibited Conduct

– Pro-edge prohibits discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and bias-based behavior in all its forms, including:
– Discrimination in hiring, promotion, compensation, or any other terms and conditions of employment.
– Harassment or bullying based on any protected characteristic, including verbal, physical, or visual forms of harassment.
– Retaliation against individuals who report discrimination or harassment, participate in investigations, or assert their rights under this policy.

6. Complaint Reporting and Investigation

– Any employee who believes they have experienced or witnessed discrimination, harassment, or bias-based behavior should report it immediately to their supervisor, HR department, ethics and compliance office, or any designated reporting officer.
– Pro-edge will promptly and thoroughly investigate all complaints of discrimination, harassment, or bias-based behavior, take appropriate corrective action, and provide support to the affected parties.

7. Training and Awareness
Pro-edge provides regular training and awareness-raising initiatives to employees, managers, and other stakeholders on diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination to promote understanding, sensitivity, and compliance with this policy.

8. Compliance and Enforcement
Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contractual relationship, depending on the severity of the offense.

9. Review and Revision
This policy will be periodically reviewed and revised as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with organizational values, legal requirements, and best practices in diversity and inclusion.

10. Communication
Pro-edge communicates this policy to all employees, contractors, vendors, customers, and other stakeholders through various channels, including employee handbooks, orientation sessions, and internal communications.

By adhering to this Diversity & Inclusion/Non-Discrimination Policy, Pro-edge demonstrates its commitment to creating a workplace culture that values diversity, promotes inclusion, and ensures equal opportunities for all individuals.