Diversity and Racial Inequity Commitment
YOS strives to provide just, fair, and accessible opportunities and services to people of all races, ages, colors, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, religions, national origins, migratory statuses, disabilities/abilities, political affiliations, veteran statuses, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The organization is committed to addressing systemic racism and inequity and prioritizing and promoting diversity and equity in its service delivery process. This commitment is reflected in its hiring practices, policies and procedures, staff training opportunities, marketing and communications, partners and board members selection, and various office locations. YOS addresses the cultural and linguistic needs of the diverse populations it serves by hiring qualified residents from these communities. These residents are more sensitive to the cultural values of the population they will serve.
YOS values diversity and strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees. To address racial inequity within our organization, staff members initiated discussions to generate ideas on how YOS could address the racial injustices experienced by our staff, clients, and the communities we serve. As a result, the Social Justice Committee was formed to promote dialogue, develop action-based approaches, review internal policies, and strengthen relationships. Both staff and the board have been participating in DE&I and antiracism training. YOS has established key community partnerships with system stakeholders who frequently interact with a large number of youths of color, including health institutions, law enforcement, juvenile justice, and homeless and child welfare agencies. Further, YOS continues to facilitate learning, including staff restorative justice training. Some key themes that help guide the committee’s work include:
- Transparency and Accountability
- Social Justice
- Inclusion/Inclusivity
- Equity
- Anti-Racism
- Community and Community-Building
- Action
- Respect
- Anti-Oppression
- Transformation