Diversity at AFS is one of our deepest strengths and resources and one of our most important challenges.
Cultivating Critical Consciousness, Creating A Conscious Community
“Diversity and Inclusion” is rooted in Critical Consciousness. Critical consciousness calls for us to go beneath the surface and beyond myths—developing deep understanding and deep listening skills. This requires both internal and external processing, knowledge of self and others. It calls for us to examine the impact and interactions of individuals, ideologies, and institutions. Moreover, developing a critical consciousness dovetails with creating a Conscious Community. A conscious community is one that heightens awareness and expression, provides meaning and purpose, responds to human needs, reflects values and culture, and encourages and supports learning, growth, health, and well-being. Developing a critical consciousness and creating a conscious community is a result of Quaker pedagogy and practice, where every voice is valued and wisdom comes from the group. Learning is achieved through inquiry, reflection, collaboration, service, and respect.
Philosophy
Diversity and Inclusion work is our shared responsibility as a community; we all have a role to play. Successful engagement in this work stems from education, exposure, and experience.
For more information, contact Mikael Yisrael, Director of Equity, Justice & Engagement.