This is the practice of including and engaging minority groups and collectives, but only in a symbolic and superficial way. The neologism comes from the word token, which means symbol.
This is a discriminatory practice precisely because it is based on avoiding accusations of prejudice and discrimination. It pretends to be diverse, but with no intention of a real integration that advocates for social justice.
On the other hand, this practice does not solve the issue of exclusion. In fact, it accentuates and perpetuates it. The objective is basically to comply with policies, quotas, or the expectations of a group of people.
Tokenism happens anywhere, in private companies, government positions, education, art exhibitions, literary awards, film, and more.
The term emerged in the United States in the context of civil rights and the fight against racism. Today, however, it also applies to other historically discriminated groups, including collectives of women, people with disabilities, migrants, or sexually and gender diverse people.
For example, to comply with inclusive policies, companies hire a person with a disability. Yet, they make no real efforts to eliminate barriers to minimally comply with reasonable accommodations. The same thing occurs when a woman is designated to a position of responsibility, but only to meet a quota and not based on her abilities.