DEI: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

DEI:

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council will not tolerate racism in any form. We are committed to providing an anti-racist environment built through meaningful and lasting work in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

Girl Scouts Stands Against Racism and Pledges to Work for a Just Society for All

What do the terms in DEI mean? What do they mean in the context of Girl Scouting?

Diversity is about difference. A group has diversity when the people present (e.g., our organization’s girl members, volunteers, staff) re ect differences across socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, physical ability, gender, sexual orientation, age, education, religion, political beliefs, and so on. Different groups re ect different forms and degrees of diversity—and the Girl Scout Constitution calls for our membership to re ect the pluralistic nature of our communities.

Equity is about seeking to give everyone access to the same opportunities while acknowledging that we don’t all start from the same place. Through equitable practices, people are given the support they need to have an experience (e.g., participate in Girl Scouts). Tackling this part of the work requires that we understand the underlying causes of disparities in, for example, health, educational, and employment outcomes among different demographics.

When inclusion is happening, people who are present feel a sense of belonging (e.g., have a voice, hold leadership positions, feel Girl Scouts is for them). In the words of inclusion strategist, social commentator, author, and Net ix’s VP of inclusion strategy Vernā Myers, “Diversity is being asked to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.” While a truly inclusive group is necessarily diverse, a diverse group may or may not be inclusive.

Diversity & Inclusion Action Team:

Are you passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion? Do you want to be more involved in our Council to ensure our Girl Scouts feel welcomed, respected and included?

The Diversity & Inclusion Action Team is a committee of staff, volunteer, and older girl members that is focused on upholding the Council’s Anti-racism & Antidiscrimination Policy, which states:

“Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council will not tolerate racism in any form. We are committed to providing an anti-racist environment that ensures all girls of color and culture feel supported, welcomed, and treated with dignity and respect. Our Council will take action to support all girls, volunteers, alums, staff and family members to ensure a more equitable organization that does not tolerate racial injustice...”

If you want to learn more about the values of the Diversity & Inclusion Action Team and our Council, visit Girl Scouts’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) page on our website and if you are interested in joining the Action Team, please email Chief of Member Services Debra Donnell at ddonnell@gssgc.org.