EQUITY AND INCLUSION

Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

A Pledge for Equality, a Mission for Inclusion

At United Way of Northeast Michigan, we believe in the power of diversity and the importance of equity and inclusion in every facet of our work and community. Our commitment to these principles is unwavering, as we recognize that achieving true equity is both a moral imperative and a critical component in fulfilling our mission to improve lives and strengthen communities.

Understanding Equity and Inclusion

Equity goes beyond the absence of discrimination. It involves creating opportunities for all people to have equal access to resources, services, and pathways to success. Inclusion means valuing and respecting the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions of every individual in our community. Together, equity and inclusion form the cornerstone of a society where everyone can thrive.

Our Equity Vision

We envision a community where:

Every voice is heard, and every person feels valued and respected.
Differences are celebrated as strengths that enrich our collective efforts.
Barriers to access, participation, and progress are dismantled for all, especially those who have been historically marginalized.

Taking Action

Our pledge to equity and inclusion is reflected in our actions:

Programs and Services: We design and implement programs that meet the diverse needs of our community, ensuring equitable access and outcomes for all.
Community Engagement: We actively seek out and incorporate diverse perspectives into our decision-making processes, recognizing that inclusive collaboration leads to better solutions.
Workplace Culture: We foster an organizational culture that embraces diversity, supports equity, and encourages inclusion at every level.
Continuous Learning: We commit to ongoing education and self-reflection to deepen our understanding of systemic inequities and to challenge our biases.

Our Call to Action

Achieving equity is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment and action of all community members. We invite you to join us in this vital work:

Learn about the challenges and barriers faced by underrepresented groups in our community.
Speak up against injustice and advocate for policies and practices that promote equity.
Act by volunteering, donating, or participating in initiatives that support equity and inclusion.

TOGETHER, WE CAN BUILD A MORE EQUITABLE COMMUNTIY

The journey toward equity and inclusion is ongoing, and while challenges remain, our resolve is steadfast. With your support, we can create lasting change that benefits everyone in Northeast Michigan. Let us unite in our efforts to build a community where equity and inclusion are not just ideals, but realities for all.

For more information on our equity initiatives and how you can get involved, please contact us.