To help promote understanding and awareness of spirituality and religion among its employees, Carlson is holding its first-ever informational event on the topic.

The event will be on Thursday, April 19, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Carlson headquarters in the Twin Cities, and from 3-6 p.m. at the Carlson Hospitality Worldwide Reservations Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Organized by the company's Multicultural Committee, the event is designed to foster awareness and understanding of the communities that Carlson serves. The event will focus on some of the world's major religions and spiritual practices, with representatives present to provide background information and answer questions.

"There is a debate over whether spirituality and religion should be brought into the workplace. The fact is, it already is," said Carmen Baker, vice president, enterprise diversity, Carlson. "By opening our culture and reinforcing mutual respect and acknowledgement, we are able to build better relationships with our colleagues, customers and partners. Spirituality and religion are just as important as all other dimensions of diversity, and should be recognized in the same manner. We are excited to take this important step."

On-site representatives will be available to provide employees with information on their religion's history, basic beliefs or premise, major observances or events, sacred writings, symbols, place of practice or worship, special food requirements/restrictions/preferences, and ways in which travel and marketing industries can serve them.

Over the past several years, Carlson has conducted diversity and inclusion events on disabilities, sexual orientation and on a variety of topics that celebrate Carlson's diverse employee base, including Black history and Hispanic heritage.

"Our company is committed to an inclusive environment that reflects our employees, our customers and the communities we serve," says Baker. "This refers not only to ethnic background and gender, but to the much broader spectrum of dimensions that make us unique individuals."