Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion SIG

Affiliated 2019

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Contact Information

Current SIG Leaders
Melissa Connally - Chair

Mission/Objectives:
ACBS is an international organization which values understanding human behaviour within contexts. In order to fulfill this vision, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) SIG aims to help members with different backgrounds share their perspectives within the organization through
different channels, including but not limited to access to leadership, organizing and/or attending professional activities (e.g., World Conference, regional conference, etc.), communicating with people with different backgrounds, and initiating DEI-related activities. We endorse a broad definition of different backgrounds, including but not limited to nationality, professional discipline and setting, age and generational influences, gender identity and sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, religion and spiritual orientation, and disability.

Definition of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity - psychological, physical, and social differences that occur among any and all individuals. Diversity includes all the ways in which people differ, encompassing the different characteristics that make one individual or group different from another, including but not limited to: race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, socioeconomic status, education, marital status, language, age, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, mental or physical ability, veteran status, genetic information and learning styles. Our definition also includes diversity of thought: ideas, perspectives, and values. We recognize that individuals affiliate with multiple identities. A diverse group, community, or organization is one in which a variety of social and cultural characteristics exist.

https://www.uh.edu/cdi/diversity_education/resources/pdf/terms.pdf

https://independentsector.org/resource/why-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-matter/

Equity - The guarantee of fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of marginalized groups. https://diversity.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/admin_strategic_planning_toolkit_final.pdf

Inclusion - Authentically bringing traditionally excluded individuals and/or groups into processes, activities, and decision/policy making in a way that shares power. http://www.racialequityresourceguide.org/about/glossary

General interest area to be specifically addressed: 
We would like to create a more inclusive community that is sensitive to diverse personal and professional backgrounds and their perspectives, experiences, and insights. To do this, we will engage with as many members as possible and work together.

SIG activities:
We have created our own listserv, Youtube channel, blog, Voice & Values podcast and resources webpage to share resources and perspectives.  Some of our activities include sponsoring symposium or panel discussion at the ACBS World Conference, conducting surveys on underrepresented members, engaging with underrepresented members, and initiating DEI-related activities throughout the year, especially during the World Conference.

Describe the SIG's membership:
Any person who has an interest in facilitating diversity, equity, inclusion, and related justice concerns within ACBS. This SIG works closely with the DEI Committee and will further engage with the larger community to include more members. We expect the membership will increase steadily in the future.