Sitting here discussing different aspects of faith with a friend, then thinking of this business blog, provokes me to ask, “Is the religion of secular humanism the only safe religion to have in the workplace?” If so, how do people of faith assimilate without compromising their faith? When “celebrating diversity” and “political correctness” seems to rule the day, just how does one square these things and maintain their faith?

First, you may ask, “What the heck do you mean-the religion of secular humanism?” In my view, secular humanism is cynical about God and the supernatural and believes that these are not of use for addressing problems. Generally, secularist beliefs emphasize limits on the role of religious or supernatural considerations in the affairs of society or government. Secular humanism may add to these views a broad perspective on life, which includes human dignity and the value of ethics. While these perspectives may have merit, does the suppression of religion, religious symbols, or traditions in the workplace advance another belief system by default? For another viewpoint of secular humanism, I suggest further reading by Dr. Paul Kurtz at this link: Secular Humanism

Now, back to the question at hand:What is the viability of religion or overt references to ones faith in the workplace? Many precedents have been set in the courts with regard to this subject. The common thread in many of the cases deal with whether or not there was religious harassment. If evidence bore out harassment, the law comes down on the side of complainants. However, for the past several years, many companies such as Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, as well as subsidiaries of Wal-Mart Stores are hiring chaplains, similar to those in the military, and come in a variety of religions to choose from. Members of these 24-hour “God squads”, as they have become known, visit employees in hospitals, and deal with a host of personal issues. They are even equipped to say the vows for a worker’s wedding day or deliver the eulogy at ones’ funeral.

So, is it really necessary for people of faith to compromise their faith in order to get along in a diverse workplace? Absolutely not. People are becoming open about their spirituality. According to the Gallup Organization , 95% of Americans say they believe in God or a universal spirit, and 48% say they talked about their religious faith at work that day. Therefore, it makes sense that, along with their laptops and lunch bags, people would start bringing their faith back to work. We must be tolerant of different cultures and beliefs, but if we are truly being productive, there should not be time for proselytizing from the secular or religious humanists in the workplace. The balance comes when we understand there is freedom of religion, not freedom from religion.

In summary, it does not seem like we have to square or beliefs with anything. We just need to understand that it is our behavior that needs to be checked when we come through the office doors; not our faith.