Diversity Equity and Inclusion Statement

From the Board and Executive Team

In November 2023, Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) ran our inaugural whole of organisation survey to measure diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The results showed we are a diverse organisation. One of our commitments from the survey is to increase diversity amongst senior roles to better reflect the communities we work with. This DEI statement reaffirms the Board and Executive Teams’ unwavering commitment to DEI.

At BSL, our vision and purpose are grounded in serving our community with compassion, through passion and advocacy for policy reform, integrity, and a commitment to quality service through innovation. We recognise that to truly embody these values, we must actively embrace and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within BSL and in all our interactions.

Diversity is a source of strength and innovation. We believe that by valuing the unique perspectives, backgrounds, and lived experiences of every individual, we can create a richer and more effective BSL. We are committed to building and supporting a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve, ensuring that our programs and services are informed by a wide range of voices and lived experiences.

Equity is essential for fairness and justice. We strive to create an environment where everyone has access, opportunities and resources, enabling all individuals to thrive. This means actively identifying and dismantling barriers to participation and success within BSL. We are dedicated to making decisions that are fair, unbiased, and focused on equity.

Inclusion is about belonging and respect. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued, safe, heard, and empowered to contribute. We believe that inclusion is not just about bringing people together, but about that every individual feels a sense of belonging and respect. We will foster an environment where different perspectives are encouraged and where each person feels they can bring their whole selves to work.

As leaders of BSL, we are united in our commitment to DEI. This commitment extends beyond words to meaningful actions. We will hold ourselves accountable by setting measurable goals, implementing training and development programs, and regularly assessing our progress. We will listen, learn, and adapt as we strive to create a truly inclusive environment for all. We aspire to foster an environment where everyone on our team belongs, is supported to grow and succeed, and is empowered to contribute meaningfully to our vision and purpose.

We understand that the journey towards diversity, equity, and inclusion is ongoing and requires commitment and leadership across all levels at BSL. We are dedicated to making continual progress and invite every member of the BSL community to join us in this effort. Together, we can create a more just and inclusive future for all.