In June 2021, Rotary’s Board of Directors strengthened its commitment to making diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) part of the fabric of Rotary. In his February communication to current and incoming club leaders President Shekhar called us to action. 

 

“As Rotary leaders, we are instrumental in helping our districts and our clubs become more inclusive. We have the opportunity to help our members develop the skills they need to embrace all facets of diversity. We must work toward equity so every person who engages with Rotary has access to the resources, opportunities, networks, and support they need to be valued, contributing members,” said President Shekar.

What we say and how we behave matters.  We as leaders must take responsibility for how our words and actions impact others – in other words “walk the talk”.  The Rotary DEI Code of Conduct reflects our core values and reminds us to: use respectful language, be supportive, foster a welcoming and inclusive environment and celebrate diversity.

 

The Zone DEI team is here to support you.  We are in the process of developing a comprehensive plan to support districts (and in turn clubs) as we start to implement resources and strategies to make DEI part of the fabric of Rotary.  We will be inviting 2 or 3 districts per zone to participate in a DEI pilot opportunity.  The proposed pilot will include: analysis of the demographics of the district, resources to determine the current status of diversity, equity and inclusion and presentation materials and follow up discussion to support the district and clubs.  We will be reaching out to districts in the near future.

 

In the meantime, the following key questions are provided to support districts and clubs reflect on their current practice. 

 

For more information please contact Lori Anne Jones lajones@outlook.com, Kate Sims klsims59@gmail.com or Susan Davidson susanmdavidson77@gmail.com .