Human Development and Family Studies Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement

HDFS Core Values

Equity, Integrity, Community, and Intentionality

HDFS Commitment to Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Embedded within our departmental core values of Equity, Integrity, Community, and Intentionality is a deep commitment to diversity and inclusion. We believe that our community and institution are enhanced and strengthened through interactions with and learning from people with diverse lived experiences, who represent all walks of life. We are committed to equally valuing  all persons and their experiences in our teaching, research, and service activities. EDI is not just a phrase; each word speaks to distinct values. To allow for shared understanding, thoughtful conversation, and intentional action we provide the following definitions for diversity, equity, and inclusion:

• Equity: Ensuring that everyone has opportunities to succeed by increasing access, resources, and opportunities for all; especially for those who are underrepresented and historically and  systemically disadvantaged.
• Diversity: The representation of different and unique identities, characteristics, experiences, and perspectives.
• Inclusion: A welcoming culture in which differences are celebrated and a sense of belonging is fostered. Everyone is valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

HDFS Commitment Against Racism and Discrimination

HDFS is committed to equal opportunity for all persons and will not tolerate any discrimination against or harassment of persons on the basis of factors including but not limited to: race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, political affiliation, genetic information, veteran status, disability, age, background, lifestyle, and/or culture.

Further, we acknowledge the effects of racism, racial trauma, and other manifestations of hate and bigotry that cause significant harm to the individual and collective health and wellbeing, as well as the associated disparities these create and/or perpetuate in access to, utilization, and the quality of education, healthcare, and human services in communities of color and diverse communities. These inequities and the need for cultural humility and cultural competence in education, health, and human services cannot be ignored, and are critical to addressing our teaching, research, and service.

Our EDI commitment extends beyond UNCG HDFS; we are committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice for all on a local, state, national and global scale.

HDFS Implementation and Practices

Through intentional actions, we foster equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work as a department, including in the ways that we stand for social justice, advocate for equity, foster  inclusion, and carry out our values through teaching, training, research, scholarship, and service.