Questions you might ask a group to consider:
- What does nondiscrimination mean in practice in our setting?
- Are there specific dimensions (e.g., race, gender identity, disability, religion) where we’ve seen challenges or inconsistencies?
- How do we ensure respectful communication and treatment across diverse beliefs and identities?
- Are staff and volunteers trained to recognize and interrupt discriminatory behavior or microaggressions?
- How do we balance inclusion with freedom of belief in our community?
- How do we handle reports of perceived discrimination within our programs?
Discussion items:
These items could be used to guide a discussion about nondiscrimination. Note: Organizations will differ in how they implement inclusion standards, but all must ensure that their practices do not create unsafe, hostile, or exclusionary environments for children or vulnerable adults.
Discrimination of any kind is not permitted. No adult may treat a child, vulnerable adult, colleague, or caregiver differently based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.
We recognize that people come from varied cultural and religious backgrounds. Our expectation is not uniformity of belief but uniformity of behavior that ensures all individuals feel respected, included, and safe within the program setting.
All children and vulnerable adults must have equal access to services, supervision, and support. Exclusion—intentional or inadvertent—creates harm and risk and is not acceptable.
We acknowledge that perceptions of fairness can differ. What matters in this setting is that every participant experiences consistent treatment, regardless of personal characteristics or background.
Language, tone, and attitude must reflect respect and inclusion. Slurs, stereotypes, or dismissive remarks are prohibited, whether spoken directly, implied, or shared through jokes.
We understand some adults may be more familiar with different norms. Our role is not to challenge those beliefs, but to ensure that all behavior in this space meets the standard of safety and respect we require.
Favoritism based on familiarity, background, or shared identity is prohibited. Staff and volunteers must not give special treatment or attention to any individual or group.
We believe relationships are stronger when they are equitable. Demonstrating respect across differences strengthens trust and ensures no one feels “less than” or singled out.
If a staff member witnesses discriminatory behavior, they must report it. Silence signals tolerance. All concerns must be raised through the appropriate organizational channels.
We do not ask anyone to abandon their values—but we do require professional conduct that supports a safe and respectful environment for all.