Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
As the region’s leading advocate and largest provider of programs and services to support the protection and preservation of our natural and cultural resources, the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) is committed to ensuring ALL communities view DRBA as an organization that is responsive and inclusive. To fulfill this commitment, we are strongly committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work and to being a culturally competent organization.
DRBA's commitment to these concepts began with its founding in 2002, when it was determined that the region's natural and cultural resources needed to be available to all citizens and protected for all people of future generations. In December, 2018, DRBA’s board of directors and staff began developing a formal strategic plan focused on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). In February, 2019, the plan was unanimously adopted by the board of directors.
In order for the plan to stay on the front burner of the organization, a DEI Task Force was formed in late February, 2019 and continues its work today. Over the past year, the Task Force has continued to learn, listen and transform the way that DRBA works in our region.
Although the focus is on DEI policies and issues directly related to DRBA's mission, there is concern for and awareness of overlapping with environmental justice – particularly the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to protection from environmental and health hazards. DRBA's philosophy remains consistent from the day of its founding: Everyone should have equitable access to decision-making process to ensure they have a healthy environment in which to live, learn, and work.
We remain committed to being a more culturally competent and inclusive organization and to ensuring all of DRBA's programs and services are easily accessible, promoted to, and embraced by, our diverse community.
DRBA's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan
