Giving Compass' Take:

• The National Center for Family Philanthropy provides an overview of the difference between diversity, equity, and inclusion while also making the moral, social, economic, and market arguments for why nonprofit organizations need to implement these principles. 

• How important are diversity, equity, and inclusion in your own organization? How do you foster these principles in your office and community? 

• Read about what's next for diversity, equity, and inclusion and how to go forward in philanthropy with this lens. 

Diversity, equity, inclusion. Nonprofit organizations use these words as they strive to become more diverse, yet many leaders are uncertain about the steps needed to turn dialogue – and intention – into action.

The Independent Sector Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion focus area highlight information and tools to help leaders make the changes that will lead to more diverse, inclusive, and equitable organizations. In this post, we offer a foundational understanding of the issues: baseline definitions, the case for why diversity matters, and an introduction to the resources that you’ll find in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion focus area.

Diversity includes all the ways in which people differ, encompassing the different characteristics that make one individual or group different from another.

Equity is the fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups.

Inclusion is the act of creating environments in which any individual or group can be and feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued to fully participate.

Key arguments make the case for diversity, equity, and inclusion:

  1. The moral or social justice case asserts that each person has value to contribute and that we must address barriers and historical factors that have led to unfair conditions for marginalized populations.
  2. The economic case is based on the idea that organizations and countries that tap into diverse talent pools are stronger and more efficient.
  3. The market case states that organizations will better serve their customers if they reflect the diversity of their market base.

Read the full article about diversity, equity, and inclusion at the National Center for Family Philanthropy.