“Villages NW intentionally endorses I.D.E.A. principles for the benefit of our leadership, members, volunteers, and our community.”
I: Villages NW will ensure inclusivity in membership, volunteer base, and leadership roles. We will welcome innovative ideas that come from the perspectives and experiences of our diverse participants. We will be intentional in our pursuit of IDEA goals and objectives.
D: Villages NW will seek diversity when developing leadership, welcoming new members, supporting volunteers, and interacting within the community. We recognize the potential for expanded decision-making pathways that honor the diverse perspective and experience of differing gender identities and choices, religions, ethnicities and races, languages and cultural backgrounds. And we will actively demonstrate IDEA values.
E: Villages NW will strive to create equity and empowerment as we expand opportunities for Villagers in accordance with Villagers’ varied needs for engagement. We understand that diversity is a source of enrichment.
A: Villages NW will provide accessible pathways to participation. We are aware that age-related and disability-related accommodation may require creative solutions. We will respect and accept diversity. We acknowledge that our Villages are made stronger by representative diverse ideas and experiences.
Our commitment to IDEA principles demonstrates Villages NW commitment to humanity, integrity, and the dignity of our Villagers and our community. We’re pleased to know that DEI policy is secure under Oregon law and that Oregon leadership is supportive of values that align with our Villages NW Mission.
This video from May 2017 illustrates challenges faced by older LGBQT adults even today.