Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

 

 

 

In the face of the continuous rise in violence and discrimination against the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Community in the United States, The Association of Junior Leagues International reaffirms our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which condemns discrimination, racism and racial injustice. As a leading women’s civic leadership organization, we will continue to accelerate our efforts to eliminate racism and partner with organizations working to ensure that women not only gain equity and inclusion, but feel a sense of belonging in communities far and wide.

Recent events across the globe have brought us to a pivotal moment in history where we need to speak up for the values our organization believes in. The AJLI Board understands that it is important for us to listen, learn and engage. Conversations on race can be painful, hard and personal. It is more important than ever for us to be open, vulnerable and actively listening.

The Association of Junior Leagues International condemns discrimination, racism, and racial injustice in our communities and in our Junior Leagues. Black women and other women of color have been systemically denied equity and inclusion in our economy, education, civic privileges, and responsibilities in the voluntary sector, including in The Junior League. As affirmed by our member Junior Leagues, we are accelerating our efforts to take action and advance definitive, measurable policies and practices that eliminate racism in our countries, our communities, and our Junior Leagues. When we do this, we unlock tremendous power for our communities and realize our vision of women around the world as catalysts for lasting change.

WHAT HAVE WE BEEN DOING? LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT JUNIOR LEAGUES ARE DOING ACROSS THE ASSOCIATION

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE: THE NEXT STEPS

We understand that the work to embed Diversity, Equity and Inclusion into every facet of The Association will take commitment way beyond statements or resources. AJLI CEO Patsy Doerr, in partnership with the AJLI Board, is leading the way through the development and implementation of a long-term strategy, which will utilize feedback from stakeholders across the Association.

AJLI has convened a DEI Advisory Panel led by the AJLI CEO, which includes representatives from the AJLI Team DEI Workgroup, AJLI Board DEI Committee, League Members DEI Workgroup and Professional DEI League Members and Certified Partners Workgroup.