What are Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?

Diversity

The differences between us based on which we experience systemic advantages or encounter systemic barriers to opportunities.

• Individuals are not diverse

• Diversity isn’t just about race

• Diversity isn’t the end game

Equity

Creating fair treatment, access, and opportunities for advancement for each person based on their unique needs.

• Equity is about eliminating unfair advantages

• Equity isn’t the same as equality

• Equity removes assumptions and predictions

Inclusion

Fostering a sense of belonging by centering, valuing and amplifying the voices, perspectives and styles of those who experience more barriers based on their identities.

• Inclusion is not just including all differences

• Inclusion isn’t ignoring or surmounting difference

• Inclusion is actively valuing and welcoming differences, not ignoring them

Why are these things important to us?

The problems facing our trout, salmon, and greater watershed are vast and complex. In a given area, there can be many different stakeholders who are invested in an area’s future. Business owners, land owners, tribal leaders, government officials, farmers, fisherpeople, park goers, and anyone who drinks, bathes in, or otherwise uses water are all affected by water policy. By bringing together people of all kinds, we can build better, more complete solutions that serve not only the animals and habitats we are trying to protect, but the communities and people we live alongside.

As we want the benefits of Trout Unlimited’s efforts to touch everyone’s lives, we want to reach out to all, to increase the quality of our decision making, the strength of our solutions, and perform at the highest possible level for all. We want our rivers and streams to not only teem with fish, but the wide and beautiful variety of people that call Washington state their home!

We value DIVERSITY, because it strengthens both our ecosystems and our communities when we have it!

We value EQUITY, because we have all had different challenges to face, and believe all deserve an equal opportunity!

We value INCLUSION, because everyone deserves a safe place to celebrate coldwater fish and watershed health!

Want to join the DEI committee?

We welcome members from all chapters to join us at our monthly meetings, held virtually every 3rd Monday on Zoom. Whether you want to be a part of expanding the DEI values to Washington members, or you just have some questions, please feel free to contact us!

Also, be sure to check out our upcoming events on the Events page! We host inclusive fly casting clinics and other events to encourage anyone interested in getting out on the river to feel welcome and stay safe.