Starting the Year with a Little DEI

Written by GISSV's DEI Committee

What is DEI? There’s an idea thrown around in our minds about DEI. Perhaps, the negative thoughts broadcasted on television of racism, social inequality, or learning disabilities come to mind. Perhaps, it’s the ongoing positive efforts that are broadcasted by various institutions like, companies, schools, including GISSV, to set our community on a positive trajectory that will benefit all. Perhaps, it’s time to step back and relearn what DEI is, and there’s no better time to learn than now. 

You probably know that DEI is an acronym for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Vielfalt, Gleichstellung und Inklusion). However, let’s break down the three terms, according to dei.extension.org

Diversity (Vielfalt) is the presence of differences that may include race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, socioeconomic status, language, (dis)ability, age, religious commitment, or political perspective. Populations that have been- and remain- underrepresented among practitioners in the field and marginalized in the broader society. 

Equity (Gleichstellung) is promoting justice, impartiality and fairness within the procedure, processes, and distribution of resources by institutions or systems. Tackling equity issues requires an understanding of the root causes of outcome disparities within our society. 

Inclusion (Inklusion) is an outcome to ensure those that are diverse actually feel and/or are welcome. Inclusion outcomes are met when you, your institution, and your program are truly inviting to all. To the degree to which diverse individuals are able to participate fully in the decision-making processes and development opportunities within an organization or group. 

Did you know GISSV has a DEI webpage? Here are some other resources to expand your knowledge on DEI, but feel free to share some resources with us as well! 

• https://dei.extension.org/

• https://www.inclusionhub.com/articles/what-is-dei

• https://untoday.org/

The DEI/DRIN parent group welcomes article contributions from the GISSV community related to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) or Diversität, Repräsentation, Inklusion, Normkritik (DRIN) activities on campus.

Join us at our next monthly meeting on January 10! Every second Tuesday of each month. Both German and English speakers are welcome.

Click here to join the meeting

Questions? Contributions? Email dei-parents@gissv.org.