Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within ORTWS

A STATEMENT FROM OUR EXECUTIVE BOARD

We are in troubling and uncertain times. The Trump Administration has called diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility (DEIA) programs illegal and issued executive orders to end those efforts within the federal government. As part of these executive orders, all federal DEIA employees have been placed on paid administrative leave, and widespread terminations of probationary federal staff are ongoing.

The position of the Oregon Chapter of The Wildlife Society (ORTWS) remains unchanged in response to these federal actions and we remain committed to our core values. Our mission is to inspire, empower, and enable Oregon’s wildlife professionals and students to promote science-based wildlife conservation and management. Furthermore, we are committed to making the wildlife profession in Oregon more inclusive and equitable for everyone. We embrace a broad spectrum of identities reflective of the overall human population, including individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

What is Diversity and Inclusion?

Diversity is generally said to mean acknowledging, understanding, accepting, valuing and celebrating differences among people including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs.

Inclusion is involvement and empowerment, where the inherent worth and dignity of all people are recognized. An inclusive organization promotes and sustains a sense of belonging; it values and practices respect for the talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and ways of living of its members.

Are you a bridge builder and want to get more involved to support diversity, equity and inclusion in your profession and community? Consider joining the DEI Committee: ortws@ortws.org

DEI

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Resources for Wildlifers

ORTWS Diversity committee will seek to provide updated links to resources for ORTWS partners and membership. By providing these resources we hope to better communicate the importance of strengthening and supporting diversity efforts within the Chapter and throughout the wildlife profession. The resources below will help support those who are seeking more information on the issues of inequality and injustice that many still face today and what can be done in service to permanent and lasting change now and in the future.

If you would like add a diversity resource to this webpage please email: ortws@ortws.org

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