WWU Updates on DEI

Western Washington University Approach to ADEI

The ADEI work of Western Washington University is grounded in community building. The focus on community building has emerged from the shared desire of Western’s students, faculty, and staff for a greater sense of belonging, specifically to live in community with others in a healthy way. This framework seeks to foster deep understanding and meaningful connections between diverse groups of people by considering individual and group characteristics that support the open exploration of differences through the lens of impact.

In practice, a community building framework means that our ADEI work will approach topics through a contextual lens focused on understanding and ameliorating our complex problems by examining the interconnectedness and interdependence of issues that challenge us as a community (e.g., racism, sexism, bias, prejudice, power, privilege, etc.).  By doing so we will deepen our understanding of the multifaceted and complex nature of these issues, how they shape our beliefs and behaviors, and how they inform our responsibilities to each other.

We recognize that the process of community building is challenging and requires continuous effort. We must be intentional in our efforts to create broader spaces where individuals feel safe, respected, and valued and where they can fully engage with others. This includes confronting difficult issues and having courageous conversations, while also understanding that these discussions must always be rooted in empathy, respect, and the acknowledgment of our diverse lived experiences.