We recognize that even though people may appear similar, we are all different. We also recognize that the work of inclusion is a responsibility held by all and done for all. The ACFE Community strives to support diversity and encourage inclusion because we respect and value the unique attributes, characteristics and perspectives of our members. We also believe that bringing diverse individuals together in a safe environment creates opportunities for knowledge, innovation and professional collaboration that benefits everyone.
For added clarity, the ACFE defines diversity and inclusion as such:
Diversity: the quality of being different or unique at the individual or group level. This includes intersections of age, race, skin color, mental and developmental abilities, education, faith, religion, beliefs, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, language differences, nationality, political views, parental status, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, social class, economic class, work and behavioral styles, experiences, culture and more.
Inclusion: a dedicated effort to promote and celebrate diversity. While diversity will exist in every social system, inclusion must be created and actively encouraged. In order to get the most out of our membership’s diversity, we aim to create an environment where members feel supported, listened to and able to achieve their professional goals.
The ACFE strives to uphold our Statement of Diversity and Inclusion by valuing:
- Equitable Access to Our Community: We provide equal access for every member to this Community, a resource which enables members to thrive professionally and socially.
- Inclusive Community Guidelines: We examine and revise our community guidelines when necessary to ensure we are effective in reaching our members’ needs. We train our staff to recognize and understand the range of needs among our members and to hone their skills in building and sustaining an inclusive Community.
- Personal Expression and Experience: We affirm the uniqueness of each individual and value individual ways of existing in the world. We are committed to understanding how personal, cultural and historic aspects of identity contribute to and enrich our Community.
- Meaningful Interaction and Dialogue: We challenge the ACFE staff and members to interact meaningfully with the entire Community and to learn from one another, honoring our differences while embracing our Shared Values. We provide a safe environment that encourages expression of our differences in ways that invite dialogue rather than cause alienation. We encourage curiosity and inquiry so that we can learn from a diverse range of experiences and perspectives.
If you have any feedback about our Statement of Diversity and Inclusion or wish to raise a concern, please reach out to Ross Pry, the ACFE Membership Director, in a private message or via email at RPry@ACFE.com.