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Extension, as part of the University of Minnesota, the land-grant institution of the State, is committed to the promotion of human dignity, tolerance, and the acknowledgement, appreciation, and celebration of diversity in all of its endeavors. Extension believes that pluralism is one of the great social and economic strengths of our nation and of our democracy.
Extension will abide by the spirit and intent of the various federal and state statutes and regulations as well as University policies and governing documents pertaining to Civil Rights that provide the basis for our collective public work in communities. In addition, Extension will strive, at every possible opportunity, to raise the bar and do more than is expected of us in the area of Civil Rights since laws, regulations, and policies are only minimal standards of conduct.
Extension will intentionally work to ensure that all of our public programs, facilities, and employment opportunities are open and accessible to all. Extension will use its resources to work towards the co-creation of a State of Minnesota that works for everyone.
Extension pledges to continue to build a workforce that reflects the changing demographics of our state; provide programs that reach diverse, new, and historically underserved audiences; and create workplace climates and environments that respect differences and foster the vigorous exchange of ideas. Extension is dedicated to providing a workplace where all staff and customers--regardless of their differences--can feel safe, secure, and supported in their academic, personal, and professional pursuits.
Extension employees are committed to conducting themselves, as well as expecting others to conduct themselves, in ways that demonstrate our beliefs and values about the respectful treatment of each member of our organization and of our customers. Extension believes that we are individually and collectively responsible for our behavior and are fully accountable for our actions.
Extension embraces the concept of a civil community that abhors harassment, discrimination, apathy, violence, or exploitation of others as well as the concept of a caring community where solidarity, caring, generosity, compassion, and freedom of thought and expression are valued.
Extension is mindful that achieving the goals of diversity and dignity is a complex and challenging endeavor. Extension recognizes that ignorance, insensitivity, and bigotry can turn diversity into a source of prejudice and discrimination that rob individuals of their dignity as well as their ability to achieve their fullest potential. As a consequence, the pursuit of diversity and dignity will require on our part some measure of care, concern, conviction, and courage as well as a commitment to becoming agents of change in this regard.
Extension will use education as an instrument of liberation and to expand opportunities for all. Since all education is based on underlying values and interests, Extension will endeavor to stimulate--through education--individual initiative, critical thinking, self-determination, and leadership as keys to our democratic ideals and civic responsibilities.
Approved by Dean's Administrative Council 12/03/02
The information given in this publication is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the University of Minnesota Extension is implied.
Produced by Communication and Educational Technology Services, University of Minnesota Extension.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact your University of Minnesota Extension office or the Distribution Center at (800) 876-8636.
University of Minnesota Extension is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or sexual orientation.