SIU System ADEI Commitment Statement
The Southern Illinois University System (SIUS) is dedicated to becoming the leading anti-racist and anti-oppressive higher education institution in the U.S., combatting bias, prejudice, stereotypes, discrimination, and inequity in any form. We embrace and empower anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices, and will operationalize diversity, equity, and inclusion with respect to age, immigration status, disability status, gender identity, sexual orientation, politics, military experiences, religion, racial and ethnic identity, and socioeconomic status.
We affirm our community members’ need to be seen, heard, valued, and respected for their uniqueness and contributions and are committed to providing just and dignified learning and work experiences to all campus constituents in all meaningful activities within the communities we serve.
The SIUS will work systematically and steadily to ensure that all learners, faculty, and staff, especially those from racialized and marginalized backgrounds, feel a sense of belonging, empowerment, and engagement. We will dedicate human and financial resources to improve and expand services to drive accountability and inclusive excellence.
Closing equity gaps and boosting recruitment, hiring, retention and advancement among faculty, staff, and students will serve to expand our talent pipeline and eliminate disparities. As we educate our learners, we will enhance their critical thinking skills, deepen their understanding of historical injustices that have thwarted the progress of certain social groups, and give them proven tools to work towards justice for all and contribute to their full potential.
We fully acknowledge the historical and ongoing harms marginalized communities endure as a result of oppressive systems. Under the leadership of the SIU Board of Trustees, President, Cabinet, and VP of Anti-racism, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, we pledge to cultivate a university environment that reduces disparities in outcomes at the structural level and the harms of racism, other forms of oppression, bias, and intimidation
