Racial Equity Summit: Framing Statement

Using the Appreciative Inquiry method, Summit participants considered the topic of what we need and can do to "Ignite Authentic Racial Equity." The Framing Statement, listed below, helped center the conversation. In four focused rounds, groups delved into this topic to focus on what strengths and assets we have that can be employed to help us move forward together. It is intended to be a thought-provoking inquiry, where a simple solution is not necessarily readily available, to help us think beyond present-day constraints or limitations.

Igniting Authentic Racial Equity

Racial equity authentically brings all individuals and/or groups into mutually respectful and beneficial processes, procedures, policies, systems, activities, decision-making and leadership in a way that shares and fairly disperses power.

Authentic racial equity goes beyond “anti-racism.” It is not purely the absence of discrimination and inequities, but rather the presence of purposeful systems, programs and culture that are designed to achieve and sustain racial equity through deliberative, proactive, preventative and sustainable measures.

Authentic racial equity is defined as the preemptive reinforcement of principles, policies, practices, attitudes and actions that produce equitable power, access, opportunities, treatment, impacts and outcomes for all.

Authentic racial equity generates an unconditional sense of belonging — no matter the circumstances.

— Advanced Transformational Technologies