ASABE Policy Statement on Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access

We advance ASABE’s mission and vision through a lens that utilizes actions and strategies of inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA) in support of all ASABE members, their collective and individual activities, and our partners.

ASABE is committed to creating, nurturing and growing an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community where people of all backgrounds and identities are valued and respected and can achieve their full potential, regardless of: (i) race, ethnicity, or origin; (ii) religious or spiritual practice, or absence thereof; (iii) sex, gender identity and expression, or sexual orientation; (iv) family or relationship structure; (v) any type of disability or perceived disability, past or present; (vi) age; or (vii) any ascribed status or difference.

Definitions 

Inclusion—means our people’s unique contributions and perspectives are appreciated, recognized, empowered, and unleashed. 

Diversity—refers to the existence of variations of characteristics in a group of people. These characteristics could be everything that makes us unique, such as our cognitive skills and personality traits, along with the things that shape our identity (e.g., race, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, cultural background).

Equity—refers to fairness and justice and ensures that all members are empowered to reach their full potential. Equity is distinguished from equality; whereas equality means providing the same to all, equity means recognizing that we do not all start from the same place and must acknowledge and adjust to imbalances so that all have equality in opportunity.

Access—means that all individuals that wish to be a part of the agricultural and biological engineering community have equal opportunity and ease to pursue and achieve success.

We recognize that decisions that impact members of our society should be made with input and consideration brought by individuals collectively representing a broad base of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, experience, talent, skills, opinions, and personalities. These considerations are important for several reasons, including that diverse professional organizations reflect society’s demographics more accurately, speak to the needs of diverse stakeholders, and are more innovative and profitable.

ASABE is committed to continued dialog and self-reflection as we strive to cultivate and empower a thriving membership. 

Approved by ASABE Board of Trustees April 20, 2023