Tri Sigma was founded and built upon bonds of friendship and grew from those shared bonds, uniting and welcoming women into our sisterhood. Historically, there is evidence that membership access was exclusive, and not all women were considered for membership.
Executive Council, and NHQ staff is committed to moving Tri Sigma forward with care and concern for all members. Through many difficult conversations, several opportunities have been identified to increase diversity and create more inclusive and equitable spaces where members can feel welcome, confident, and empowered to ignite change.
In 2018, Tri Sigma established the Initiative for Inclusive Excellence to address matters of equity and inclusion. Work began, and outside consultants presented a report during the 2019 Convention. These recommendations were given thoughtful consideration and placed on the list of high-priority initiatives.
To date, Tri Sigma has:
- Created a standing committee of volunteers for diversity, equity, and inclusion known as the Inclusive Excellence Committee.
- Formed a staff committee for diversity, equity, and inclusion known as the Inclusive Excellence staff group.
- Eliminated our legacy policy.
- Revised our standards of membership to no longer include an alumnae recommendation.
- Collected demographic information of members.
- Incorporated a diversity, equity, and inclusion committee within the collegiate chapter leadership structure.
- Hosted a series of listening sessions to hear directly from members of marginalized identities.
- Featured a series of anti-racism webinars with small group conversations.
- Published a 3-part series on Inclusive Excellence in Essential Sigma and recommended completion for all members.
- Adapted the 3-part series on Inclusive Excellence in Essential Sigma and required completion for all collegiate chapter leaders.
- Reviewed governing documents for problematic language, providing suggestions for updates.
- Compiled a master calendar of cultural celebrations and appropriate messaging for social media observances.
“This list is not finite. We know there is more to do, and we are proud to continually work to achieve these initiatives, which will benefit all of our members,” said National President Natalie Natalie Moore Averette.
