Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Illinois International’s Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Illinois International upholds the access and equity policies of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. We acknowledge systemic injustices and the enduring consequences of previous actions, laws, and policies within our society, our university, and our unit. As an international education organization that seeks to foster global learning, we are determined to redress these inequities in our unit, and in turn, contribute positively to our university and society. We have defined what diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) means for Illinois International and outlined specific commitments to integrate these principles into the fabric of our organization. These principles matter because they propel us to improve access and remove harmful barriers for staff, students, and partners, globally and locally.

Diversity

Diversity is the broad range of individual differences including, but not limited to, ability, age, gender, culture, education, ethnicity, family structure, gender identity/expression, indigeneity, national origin, physical appearance, political beliefs, race, religion/spirituality, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status.

Equity

Equity is having a just and fair organizational culture that allows all members of our community to actively engage in organizational processes and create an environment free of systemic barriers.

Inclusion

Inclusion is the respect, acceptance, and appreciation for the authentic voices, talents, experiences, and identities of those within our organization, our community, and those we affect.

Our Commitments

• Commitment 1: We will respect, accept, and embrace the individual identities and differences in Illinois International and strive to include those who are and are not represented in each space.
• Commitment 2: We will employ intentional actions to ensure that Illinois International’s work environment is free of systemic barriers by providing sustainable access to resources and opportunities.
• Commitment 3: We will strive to foster genuine belonging within Illinois International.

We seek to live up to these commitments through action.