diversity

   1. the presence of both black and white employees

   Literally, the condition of being different or varied:

    The company selected the black candidate because only two of its 82 managers were from ethnic minorities and the board was feeling the pressure of federal rules demanding 'diversity' in the workplace. (Daily Telegraph, 9 April 1995 — the unsuccessful white candidate was awarded $425,000 damages against the company, a judgment which was confirmed by the Supreme Court)

   2. American

   giving preferential status to a minority group

   Or showing exceptional tolerance towards the interests of a minority:

    At a posh suburban high school in Brookline, Massachusetts, the standard course of European history was discontinued for having failed to meet the requisite 'diversity' standard, while an entire menu of new courses, in black studies, women's studies, Asian studies, etc. supplanted it. (Sunday Telegraph, 21 January 1996)

   Such fortunate students would in due course include in their résumés an account of their diversity training qualifications and experience:

    At Cornell University, a studentemployment 'diversity' training session included the showing of X-rated gay porno movies to show if applicants showed any signs of discomfort or distaste, (ibid.)