The Y is an organization focused on addressing the most critical needs of our community and dedicated to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion for all. As such, we must begin to address how to undo racism and become “anti-racists” at an individual, organizational, and societal level.
Justice is the dismantling of barriers to resources and opportunities in society so that all individuals and communities can live a full and dignified life.
Equity is the fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. Improving equity involves increasing justice and fairness within the procedures and processes of institutions or systems, as well as in their distribution of resources. Tackling equity issues requires an understanding of the root causes of outcome disparities within our society.
Diversity is the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs.
Inclusion refers to how diversity is leveraged to create a fair, equitable, healthy, and high-performing organization or community where all individuals are respected, feel engaged and motivated, and their contributions toward meeting organizational and societal goals are valued.