Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)
In September 2020, Rotary International formed a task force, under the leadership of Zone 28/32 Director Valarie Wafer. The task force was charged with assessing the current status of DEI in Rotary and shaping a comprehensive action plan to help the organization further value and live those principles.
The task force is made up of eleven Rotarians from various countries and backgrounds. Their bio’s can be found here.
What can we do to promote DEI?
Invite local diversity, equity, and inclusion experts to speak to your club. Connect with organizations that support DEI efforts, and work with them on projects or events.
Seek out new voices when you're making appointments and encourage people who have been underrepresented in these roles to take on leadership positions.
Hold conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Acknowledge that this can be uncomfortable and very personal. Establish the expectation that these conversations will allow everyone opportunities to learn and to be heard and will remain respectful.
Create a Club DEI committee that reflects the demographics of your community and works with residents to identify collaborative learning, sharing, and service opportunities.
I believe that there is a fourth element to this equation and that is acceptance. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Acceptance! Get the IDEA. We should be able to accept people for who or what they are.