Statement
The YMCA of the Inland Northwest commits to being an inclusive organization for all. Driven by our mission and values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility we actively work to close equity gaps for marginalized and underserved groups. We are inspired to elevate social justice issues facing our community, remove systemic barriers, welcome cultural diversity, and create equity for those in greatest need. Through collaboration with our diverse community partners, we work to effect meaningful change. In all things, we are dedicated to ensuring our Y is a safe, welcoming place for all people to be, belong, and become.
We will not tolerate bias, hatred, or discrimination that leads to the oppression of individuals or communities as we fulfill our purpose to give everyone a safe place to learn, grow, and thrive.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Code of Conduct
What we say and how we behave matters. We must take responsibility for how our words and actions may affect others.
We ask you to:
- Use respectful language
- Be supportive
- Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment
- Celebrate diversity
All YMCA staff, volunteers, members, and program participants are expected to apply the DEI Code of Conduct uniformly in recognition of the impact words and actions have on others.
Our YMCA is stronger when we embrace the diversity of our community, both in and outside the Y. We are more effective when we offer valuable, inclusive experiences that provide equitable opportunities for people to serve, lead, and participate with us. As an organization committed to our mission of service for all, we become a stronger, more dynamic association when we prioritize DEI. With your support and participation, we are doing just that.
The Y is committed to learning more about how we can embolden our efforts to reduce health disparities in our marginalized communities.
The Y is committed to putting into practice what we learn and promoting a community of caring, racially conscious people.
The Y is committed to strengthening our partnerships with organizations and schools to unify our community for social justice for people of color.
We invite you to join us in this journey as we work to strengthen commUNITY, by choosing kindness over hate. By speaking up and speaking out when injustice is present. What unites us will be stronger than what divides us. As part of our Y, our community needs you to stand together and support each other. We Must Do Better.
Together, we can be a part of the solution.
For Strength. For Community. For Change.
The YMCA remains committed to the ideals with which it was founded, love for neighbor, a welcome and safe haven for all, and a place where each person can experience growth and acceptance. As an inclusive, welcoming organization will continue to champion those who need us most.
We have worked collaboratively with organizations and groups within our community to build connections and support them as we all join together to strengthen the fabric and foundation of our city, county and region. We are proud of that work but know that it is not nearly enough. We can do more. Organizationally we commit to actions which affirm and champion every person of color, race, gender, age, background, or ability. Join us as the YMCA will continue to be the organization with open, welcoming doors, compassionate and able staff inside, and the commitment to do great things together. We have put the shoes on our feet but it is a long road ahead, but together, we are confident that as we walk, we can do great things.