Untitled-1

Our Commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI)

Heart of the City is committed to the principels and beliefs that a diverse community is our greatest strength. The community is in fact naturally whole, resourceful, and creative. Every student-athlete, family, employee, and board member has a unique story and some are marked with challenges and pain based on one or more of their identities. We acknowledge the difficult experiences and are committed to creating a safe space for everyone in the HOTC community.

Our Commitment

  • Acknowledging that diversity is holistic. We understand that the definition is constantly evolving. Our definition of diversity includes but is not limited to race, ethnicity, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, class, religion, disability, age, military status, visa status, economic status, geographic location, and language/linguistic ability. Diverse and well-reasoned ideas, approaches, and experiences are also essential parts of inclusion and equity. 
  • Creating an inclusive work environment where all people feel safe, valued, and respected. 
  • Creating specific and actionable practices that dismantle systemic racist and non-inclusive behaviors for the HOTC community. 
  • Providing individuals with the resources to gain awareness and understanding of cultural identities and develop competencies of JEDI through best practices training. 
  • Supporting JEDI and cultural initiatives within our alumni and donor community. 
  • Spreading awareness that JEDI is a commitment and philosophy of HOTC.
  • Providing our alumni community with a broad selection of programs, events, and learning opportunities in JEDI. 
  • Respecting those who may have been marginalized by words and actions that are not found to be acceptable and creating pathways for the current and future HOTC community of diverse backgrounds. 
  • Continuing to adapt and learn about better ways to ensure that people are treated equally.
  • We acknowledge  that we all are still learning and growing, and that while we have made many advancements we recognize that we are doing so imperfectly, we must continue to grow and have some ways to go.