5.4. Advocacy

Definitions:  Advocacy is defined as written or oral support for a specific political action or point of view, often on behalf of another group or organization. 

Forms of Advocacy: Advocacy can take the form of lobbying, public policy work, litigation, research, public education, or otherwise attempting to influence decisions by government or administrative agencies. 

Because public education can be seen as having a natural link to advocacy of certain positions, the Diversity Council needs to clearly define our policy concerning advocacy and ensure that our activities remain in alignment with our mission: to create an inclusive and welcoming community through education.

Policy Statements:

• The Diversity Council is an advocate for fairness, respect, inclusiveness, and social justice. Our method is education, which challenges stereotypes and bias, develops empathy, and encourages critical thinking.
• As a leader in diversity education, the Diversity Council is occasionally called upon by government officials, members of the media, and others to share knowledge and expertise relevant to topics and issues being deliberated in the community. The Diversity Council may do so when a response would align with our mission and our method.
• The Diversity Council respects every individual, recognizing that each person has different views, ideas, belief systems, and personal convictions, as well as opinions on the best approaches and methods for achieving common goals. 
• Because individuals can share common goals, yet differ on the best course of action to achieve those goals, the Diversity Council does not take positions on or advocate for public policy or legislation, nor does it entertain presentations to the board in an attempt to gain support for public policy issues, causes, or legislation.

Accountability and Oversight:

The views of Board or Staff members must not be conflated with the views of the Diversity Council. When Board or Staff members advocate for their interests or express their personal opinions, they must clearly dissociate themselves from Diversity Council and explicitly communicate this before expressing their views. Board and Staff members must not leave the impression that their personal views represent those of the Diversity Council. They should not use Diversity Council letterhead, graphic identity, or e-mail to communicate personal opinions or participate in advocacy activities.

The Diversity Council will keep a record or log of advocacy requests for future reference, so as to ensure proper oversight and consistency in using these guidelines.

Approved by the Board: September 20, 2006
Diversity Council Advocacy Request Log

Organization & Request/Issue Contact Decision & Outcome_____________

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