Equity Statement

United Way Southwest Louisiana (UWSWLA) improves lives and promotes equity by creating more opportunities for all Louisiana citizens through our collective action.  As leaders in uniting and motivating others for good in our region, we tackle tough problems by co-creating solutions with change agents and grassroots leaders representing all walks of life.  We amplify the opportunities and services available to all people and link them to much-needed resources to bring about real change.  We work with public and private partners to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has the resources, support, opportunities and networks they need to thrive.

We respect and value all people without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or citizenship status, age or ability status.  We expect our partner organizations, grantees, staff, volunteers, board members, vendors, and key collaborators to uphold these standards.  We believe access to opportunities need not be predicated by one’s race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or social characteristics.

Our Southwest Louisiana community achieves equity by dismantling systemic and institutional barriers underrepresented communities face in pursuit of happiness and the quest to realize their dreams.  We recognize structural racism, ethnic discrimination and other forms of oppression have contributed to racial disparities that have existed in the past and persist in the present.  UWSWLA commits to pursuing a more just, fair, and equitable society where one’s background does not predict future outcomes.   Our organization vigorously rejects and vehemently opposes racism, sexism, discrimination, prejudice, and injustice in all forms.  We commit to leveraging our collective action to create more equitable communities in Southwest Louisiana.

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