Kid First's Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Kids First is committed to cultivating and advancing a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We strive to create a positive experience for all people regardless of their race, color, age, appearance, disability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, nationality, social or ethnic origin, religion, or creed.
We strive to be inclusive. We seek to treat all people —children, parents, staff, board members, donors, volunteers, educators, community partners, and the public—with respect and dignity. We aim to cultivate understanding across differences.
We welcome children as they are. We strive to accept and support children unconditionally. Every child has an important perspective. We recognize misbehavior may result from trauma or an unmet need; it does not decrease our support for a child.
When we mediate disputes, we engage in multi-partiality. We support and value those who might be marginalized in other settings. We do not give favor to someone because they are an adult or from a dominant group.
We strive to create a safe place for differences to co-exist. When people share their perspective and we help them listen to the other person, we foster understanding, acceptance, empathy, and collaboration. Conflict resolution is most transformative when everyone can share and be heard. We encourage mutual acceptance despite differences.
We practice anti-racism. We identify and work to change beliefs and biases, policies and practices, and systems and structures to create an equitable community. We pursue equity by challenging barriers of power/oppression such as class, gender, sexuality, and age. We recognize being antiracist requires continual learning, engagement, and advocacy.
We know our biases can be harmful. We seek to become aware of our own internal and institutional biases so we can make an intentional choice not to be influenced by them. We work to develop appreciation for differing perspectives.
Kids First’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to practices and policies of recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, program delivery, professional development and training, and selection of vendors. Our work is built on the premise of equity that encourages and expects:
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Thoughtful and open communication and collaboration among employees.
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Inclusive decision making where all employees’ points of view are respected and considered.
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Advocacy for systemic change to advance equity and promote a greater understanding and respect for the diverse communities we serve.