In this new year, let’s reaffirm our organization’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion amidst the continuing challenges being put forth by our federal government. 

Our first step needs to be assuring that in our local Leagues we are all on the same page with regard to these definitions: 

• DIVERSITY includes multiple perspectives, identities and cultural groups in a given context. It is the WHO is in the room.
• EQUITY is the fair treatment, access and opportunity for people who are disadvantaged. This includes removing barriers and providing additional support and opportunities to those who need it most/are most disadvantaged to help everyone thrive. When we think about racial equity,that means fair treatment, access and opportunity for Black, indigenous and other people of color.
• INCLUSION is a context where differences are welcomed and different perspectives are respectfully heard. Inclusion also encompasses how  disparate views and needs are incorporated into processes and activities. It is the HOW are participants engaged.
• RACE is a social construct that artificially divides people into distinct groups based on characteristics such as:
• physical appearance (particularly color),
• ancestral heritage,
• cultural affiliation,
• cultural history,
• ethnic classification, and
• the social, economic, and political needs of a society at a given period of time.

(Everyday Democracy x League of Women Voters, DEI & Democracy: Webinar #1, April 29, 2025)

Also, this month is a good time for all of us to revisit the 2024 LWVUS DEI Policy Statement that we here in South Carolina also have adopted: 

Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be accepted within the League, including but not limited to race, socio-economic status, age, ability status, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, or marital status. The League is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging for all people. The League is an organization that respects and values the richness of our community and our members. The collective sum of our individual differences and life experiences represents not only our culture, but our reputation and the organization's mission and achievements as well.

(League of Women Voters Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy, updated January 2024)

Considering all of the above, I will be working with you this year to take on the “2026 DEI Focus and DEI Challenge” from the League of Women Voters of South Carolina (LWVSC) Board of Directors to all our local LWVSC chapters.  That is: 

Be intentional over the next 11 months in assessing the level of racial/ethnic diversity in your League’s membership and leadership positions and then be committed to acting on that assessment as your League engages in community outreach for building membership and for voter registration collaborations.  

Image by Maryam Abdul-Kareem, adapted from the original drawing by Craig Froehle.