Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) Statement for Soldiers2Scientists

At Soldiers2Scientists, our mission is to empower veterans by connecting them with the natural world through science and outdoor recreation. We recognize that fostering a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and just environment is essential to achieving this mission and creating a community where all veterans can thrive.

Diversity

We celebrate the unique identities, backgrounds, and experiences that each veteran brings to our organization. Our commitment to diversity means actively seeking to include individuals from a wide range of racial, ethnic, gender, age, ability, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds. We believe that a diverse community enhances our collective understanding of the natural world and enriches our exploration and conservation efforts.

Equity

We are dedicated to providing equitable access to our programs and resources, ensuring that all veterans, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to engage in natural science and outdoor recreation. This involves identifying and addressing systemic barriers that may hinder participation and success. We strive to create a level playing field where every veteran has the support and opportunities needed to achieve their full potential.

Inclusion

Inclusion is at the core of our community. We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment where all veterans feel valued, respected, and heard. By fostering a culture of inclusion, we ensure that diverse perspectives are not only represented but are integral to our decision-making processes and program development. We believe that when every voice is included, our community and our mission are stronger.

Justice

We are committed to advancing social and environmental justice within our organization and in the broader community. This involves advocating for policies and practices that promote fairness and equity, particularly for historically marginalized groups, including veterans. We recognize that environmental justice is intertwined with social justice and that addressing these issues is critical to creating a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Our Commitment

To uphold our DEIJ values, we pledge to:

Continuously assess and improve our policies, practices, and programs to ensure they reflect our commitment to DEIJ.

Provide ongoing education and training for our staff, volunteers, and partners to deepen their understanding and implementation of DEIJ principles.

Actively seek input from our veteran community and other stakeholders to inform our efforts and drive meaningful change.

Collaborate with other organizations and leaders in the field to promote DEIJ and amplify our collective impact.

At Soldiers2Scientists, we believe that embracing diversity, striving for equity, fostering inclusion, and advocating for justice are essential to our mission of connecting veterans with the natural world through science and outdoor recreation. Together, we can create a community where every veteran has the opportunity to explore, learn, and flourish in the great outdoors.