Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
At the American Public Human Services Association, we are committed to creating a world where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered. Our EDIB work aims to advance Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) by fostering an environment where every individual can thrive. Through partnership with our members, we work to innovate through the lens of belonging while deepening the impact of dismantling inequities in the Human Services System. We believe in belonging as a future state for all people.
To do this we are dedicated to addressing and correcting imbalances and barriers that have historically disadvantaged certain groups. Our focus is on ensuring fair access, opportunities, and advancement for all.
We celebrate and embrace the rich variety of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds that our members and partners bring. Diversity is not just a goal but a fundamental aspect of our identity and strength. It is the unique blend of these diverse elements that makes our community vibrant and inclusive.
We strive to create an environment where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and supported. Inclusion means actively involving people from all backgrounds in decision-making processes and interactions.
Our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging for everyone is unwavering. We aim to build a culture where each person feels a deep sense of connection and value within our community. This is not just a goal, but a promise we make to each and every member of our community.
Leadership Commitment: From the inside out, APHSA is dedicated to embedding EDIB principles into every aspect of our organization. We prioritize these values in our strategic planning, decision-making, and daily operations. Our national EDIB impact strategy advances equity through key activities and initiatives listed below.
Current Portfolio
Education and Training
We offer ongoing education and training programs to deepen understanding and practice of EDIB principles for the human services sector. These services are designed to investigate biases, enhance cultural competency, and build innovative practice.
- Tools and Resources
- Training and Technical Assistance
- THRIVE
- Strategic Planning through Developing Equity Roadmaps
Member and Partner Engagement
We actively engage with diverse communities and stakeholders to ensure our initiatives are responsive to their needs and perspectives. We value feedback and collaborate to drive meaningful change.
- Conference and Events
- Local and State Communities of Practice
- Special partnerships, including a collaboration with the National Preparedness Leadership Initiative (NPLI) at Harvard University.
Data and Outcomes
We hold ourselves accountable through transparent reporting and regular assessment of our progress. We set measurable goals and share our achievements and areas for improvement openly.
Advancing Race Equity
APHSA strives to advance race equity in all that we do.
Advancing Belonging through Environmental Justice
APHSA and our partners are exploring the intersection of human services, climate, and environmental justice. State, county, and city human services agencies play a critical role in advancing belonging and equity in communities disproportionately environmental harm. Learn more on our Environmental Justice webpage.
Get Involved
EDIB Peer Community
The EDIB Peer Community provides a platform for current and future leaders to discuss policy and practice related to advancing racial equity in human services at the state, local, and community levels. Learn more about the EDIB Peer Community.
Sponsor EDIB Events
Please contact Natalie Williams to sponsor an EDIB-focused event with APHSA.
Partner with us to advance EDIB
APHSA partners with many state, county, and city agencies, non-profits and private companies on projects that improve the human services sector. In particular, we seek ways to advance EDIB across the United States in order to advance equity and improve outcomes for all recipients of human services. If you’re interested in partnering with us, please contact Natalie Williams.
Contribute to Policy & Practice Magazine
If you would like to contribute to APHSA’s signature Policy & Practice magazine, please contact the editor, Jessica Garon, Director of Communications, at APHSA.
