Is that still valid? I thought the tests to support this concept had failed to be replicated?
http://nymag.com/intelligencer/2017/12/iat-behavior-problem....
https://www.thecut.com/2017/01/psychologys-racism-measuring-...
Most training to overcome unconscious bias is about defining criteria before you see a candidate. If, before you view resumes, you've written down "We want someone with a master's degree and 4 years of experience in field X," you're much less likely to pass over a qualified resume, regardless of the candidate's personal characteristics.
A critical component of unconscious bias training is creating awareness for implicit bias. Since 1998, the online Implicit-Association Test (IAT) has provided a platform for the general public to assess their unconscious biases. Although the IAT measure has come under scrutiny, it has sparked conversation about unconscious bias in both popular media and the scientific community. In addition to the public’s increased awareness of the influence of implicit biases, the reality of racial and gender inequalities in our society has led to the creation of many unconscious bias training programs.
From the abstract: Commitment to hiring criteria prior to disclosure of the applicant’s gender eliminated discrimination
I'm sure there are many sitautions where training is less effective, but the hiring example is well supported.
1. It convinces people to use objective, methodical criteria to evaluate candidates. (Whether or not the "unconscious bias" rationale is valid, the actual remedies boil down to, "have a process instead of winging it", and in today's political climate, "unconscious bias training" is an easier sell than "not winging it training".)
2. It makes it harder to sue the company for bias, because they can turn around and say, hey, look, we made everyone do unconscious bias training.
Similarly, anti-harassment training mostly boils down to, "these are the legal categories of harassment that you and the company may be held liable for; consider yourself forewarned".
I think now as well as "Security Theatre" it looks like we have "Diversity Theatre" as well.