Definitions
MMC Definitions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
In July 2021, the Mayors Caucus DEI Working Group held a roundtable discussion to develop shared definitions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the context of local government.
The Working Group encourages other municipalities to use the following language as a reference point in developing their own locally specific understandings of what meaningful, impactful, and lasting DEI efforts will look like in their communities.
Diversity is about respecting the inherent value in the different perspectives, experiences, and characteristics that make people unique. A diverse community or organization is one in which differences in psychological, physical, social, and cultural characteristics (such as race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, economic class, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, mental and physical ability, and learning styles) are embraced as essential to the whole.
Inclusion is about intentionally bringing people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives into conversations and decision-making processes. An organization that is inclusive acknowledges its vulnerability in making equitable and just decisions without the participation of its diverse constituents, actively seeks to invite and include the voices of those who have been historically and systemically excluded and creates ongoing pathways to ensure that any individual or group can feel welcomed, respected, and fully participate in all aspects of the organization and community.
Equity is both the process and outcome of ensuring the consistent and systemic fair, just, and impartial treatment of all individuals, especially those who belong to historically underserved and marginalized groups. A commitment to equity involves a focused effort to involve the participation of staff from multiple departments as well as diverse community voices in the assessment and review of policies, practices, and procedures that perpetuate inequities within an organization and the broader community.