The time has come: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion have long been core values at DbI. Now the Board has adopted an official policy on the subject. Here it is:
1. Purpose
(a) This policy provides the framework by which Deafblind International (DbI) actively manages and encourages diversity and inclusion across the organisation.
(b) This is an organisational policy only, and does not of itself give rise to any cause of action.
DbI actively manages diversity, equity and inclusion across the organisation and encourages it throughout the world.
2. Definitions and Commitments
(a) Diversity refers to the visible and invisible differences that exist between people including (but not limited to)
• disability,
• sex,
• sexual orientation,
• gender identity and intersex status,
• age,
• “race”,
• ethnicity,
• religion,
• culture,
• social background,
• relationship and parental status.
Diversity also encompasses the ways people differ in terms of their educational background, life and working experiences, career responsibilities, socio-economic background, and geographical location.
Deafblind International particularly values diversity of perspective with relation to deafblindness which includes perspectives of:
• People living with deafblindness
• Parents
• Siblings and other family members
• Educators
• Professionals / service providers
• Researchers
• Advocates
with relation to non-, pre-, post-lingual and age-related deafblindness.
(b) Equity refers to fairness and justice, ensuring that everyone within the organisation is treated in a fair manner according to their individual needs and circumstances and adopting practices which provide everyone with equal opportunities to succeed in their roles.
(c) Respect refers to treating individuals fairly, respectfully and courteously and ensuring their freedom from harassment and bullying.
(d) Inclusion refers to ensuring that all persons involved with Deafblind International enjoy equal opportunity without any barriers due to their differences.
4. Policy Mission Statement, Vision and Values
(a) Mission Statement: Deafblind International is dedicated to upholding the fundamental principles of diversity, respect, inclusion, and substantive equality. Our mission is rooted in the bedrock of promoting justice, integrity and equity.
(b) Vision: We envision to establish an organisational culture where all individuals are treated with unwavering respect and dignity. We aspire to be a model of inclusivity, fostering an environment that recognizes and celebrates the unique attributes and capabilities each person brings to our organisation.
(c) Core Values:
1. Inclusivity: Deafblind International champions a strong and fair organisation that accommodates, encourages, and respects a diverse range of individuals and perspectives. We believe that diversity is a source of strength, enriching our collective experiences and driving innovation.
2. Equity and Fairness: We are unwavering in our commitment to equity, ensuring that every member, regardless of their background, has equal access to opportunities and resources within our organisation. We actively work to eliminate any disparities or systemic barriers that may hinder the realization of this principle.
3. Open-mindedness: We recognize that our diverse members bring a wealth of unique backgrounds, experiences, capabilities and characteristics to Deafblind International. We cherish and harness this diversity, valuing every individual’s contribution at all levels of our organisation.
(d) Membership Reflection: Deafblind International acknowledges the paramount importance of reflecting the diversity of our membership in all facets of our organisation. We are committed to ensuring that the voices and experiences of our members are represented and integrated into our decision-making, programs, and initiatives as far as possible, including conferences, marketing, media and communications.
DbI Board and Management Committee, December 2023