JLSD Initiatives On Diversity, Equity And Inclusion

The senseless killings of Black Americans Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and Rayshard Brooks have brought to light the systemic issues our country has with racism. We share your outrage over these recent events. We want to thank all of you for your insightful contributions, passionate responses, and constructive dialogue.

The Junior League of San Diego stands against racism and is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. This is a humbling, self-critical learning moment for many of us. We are all reflecting on our progress and recognizing the gaps between our commitments and the realities faced by Black Americans within our own League and community.  Over the last several weeks, it has become clear that we must accelerate change and work together to accomplish our strategic diversity and inclusion goals.

Our Diversity and Inclusion Ad Hoc committee, serving under the Board of Directors, was put in place in 2015 to address issues with diversity within our League, leadership and membership. Since inception, we have explored ways that our organization can better reflect the San Diego community. In addition to hosting training sessions, we have worked with a consultant to explore our membership diversity, learn how to improve our understanding of what it means to be a diverse and inclusive organization, and authentically grow our membership. We are excited to share with you an update on how this Ad Hoc will evolve to promote equality and diversity in both a strategic and working task force going forward.

A new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Strategic Committee will continue the efforts of the Ad Hoc to:
a) formalize and embed a DEI platform for long-term transformation;
b) work with each EMT council to review content and reach alignment with DEI principles; and
c) implement a self-sufficient and accountable DEI structure.
The DEI Strategic Committee and Chair will be appointed by the DEI Board of Directors Liaison.

A new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force will support and implement the work of the DEI Strategic Committee by cultivating action within our membership and community. This task force is open to all members to plan and enact DEI advocacy, trainings and community impact shifts. This Task Force will be included within the Community Council.

Thank you to the many members who already expressed interest in joining our diversity and inclusion efforts.

We are committed to addressing unmet needs and will continue to work diligently to enrich and inform our members as we strive to eradicate racism and promote inclusion. We look forward to sharing more details about shift and training opportunities, as well as the progress of these important initiatives throughout the year.

In Community Spirit,
Emily Green Lake, President 2019-2020
Andrea Myers, President 2020-2021