Racial Diversity in Organizations: A Framework and Future Research Agenda

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: this article offers an overview of research on racial diversity within organizations, mapping its foundations, tensions, and theoretical horizons. Methods: we analyze the intellectual structure and evolution of the field using an integrative literature review employing mixed methods (scientific mapping and content analysis) on Web of Science data. Results: key findings reveal thematic stratification by journal impact tier, theoretical progression from foundational studies towards dynamic perspectives, performance debates shifting focus to causality and context, and predominantly US-centric collaboration networks. Conclusions: synthesizing the reviewed literature underscores that the organizational impact of racial diversity is not automatic but highly sensitive to the dynamic interplay between managerial approaches, internal organizational factors (e.g., culture, leadership, context), and the external business environment. Effectively managing racial diversity thus requires moving beyond simplistic paradigms towards systemic, context-dependent understandings. This highlights the critical need for tailored organizational strategies and points towards future research investigating these complex, interacting conditions to better harness racial diversity’s potential.