Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Belonging

The Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging is charged with the development and implementation of a systemwide strategic vision that cultivates inclusive and supportive learning and working environments throughout the Universities of Wisconsin.

This office plays a central role in ensuring that the human and financial resources of the UW system align closely with its stated mission to improve the human condition for all, including racial and ethnic identities, nationalities, social and economic status, sexual orientations, gender identity/expressions, ages, physical and mental abilities, religious beliefs, or political ideologies.

Terminology

Diversity – refers to the variety of personal experiences, values, and worldviews that arise from differences of culture and circumstance. Such differences include race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion and worldviews, language, abilities/disabilities, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, nation/geographic region, political ideology, first generation, Veteran/Military, and more.

Equity – in practice is the guarantee of fair treatment, access, and opportunity for all students, faculty, and staff in every stage of education and career development. Equity is also concerned with outcomes. While striving for fairness, institutions/organizations ought to simultaneously identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of underrepresented, marginalized, and/or minoritized groups.

Inclusion – actions leading to the creation of an environment in which any individual or group can feel welcome, respected, supported, and valued. An inclusive climate embraces differences and offers respect in words and actions so that all people can fully participate in the opportunities.