Community Rights are either inclusive, diverse, and equitable, or they’re non-existent. We recognize that our core mission of advancing community rights, including the rights of nature, will be impossible to achieve until every member of the human community is encountered with respect, offered the same opportunities as others, and liberated from every process of exclusion, subordination, victimization, and both official and private aggression, whether subtle or systemic, unconscious or intentional. We strive to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is a reflex, not an initiative. Where there is a deep sense of pride, passion and belonging that transcends any role, business, language or country and is unified in our shared commitment to excellence, innovation and social responsibility. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds create a stronger and more creative work environment that delivers better results.
The staff at the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We have much work to do to advance diversity and inclusion. We are investing within our organization and with our partners to move forward with an inclusive culture where all forms of diversity are valued.
With recent events, we felt it was necessary to update and reaffirm our thoughts surrounding the LGBTQIA+ community
CELDF is committed to promoting and respecting diversity, equality, and inclusivity. We are deeply committed to fostering a supportive and welcome space where ALL individuals can be seen and valued in their entirety. We honor all gender identities and want individuals to feel that they can live their authentic self every day. Our values are grounded in creating a safe environment for all.
CELDF wants an environmental movement with diversity at its heart. We want a community rights movement that welcomes everyone to participate. As a non-profit organization, we recognize that our history is tied to a white supremacist culture that has spent years elevating privileged identities. We know new activists will look at examples of former staff, past relationships and judge us. We accept it and deserve it. There is no excuse for not doing better.
At CELDF, we recognize that it is our responsibility to ensure that members of the LGBTQIA+ community are not excluded from participating in creating a just democracy. There is still much to learn about creating a truly inclusive environment where all individuals can achieve their full potential through community activism and we will continue to educate ourselves through research and respectful dialogue. We know that for the health and safety of our trans family, we must do the work every single day to create a more accepting and just world. Remaining silent is not an option.
We commit to:
-Educating ourselves and those around us.
-Speaking out when we witness transphobia
-Challenging decisions that exclude members of the LGBTQIA+ community
-Ensuring staff receive sufficient training and guidance to understand and support the needs of trans community members
-Respecting all aspects of an individual’s identity, including names and pronouns
The CELDF Communications team is currently drafting a Trans Inclusion Policy. It is a living document and available upon request from Info@celdf.org
Additional information
Resources for Mental Health Support –
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ young people under the age of 25. You can reach them by phone, text, or chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free, anonymous resource for anyone who is dealing with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. By calling or visiting the site to access their online chat service, you can talk to a specially trained counselor who understands issues that LGBTQ+ people may be facing. Their website also offers a section devoted to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer issues along with information for friends and family looking to help. 1-800-273-8255
Texting the Crisis Text Line will connect you to a crisis counselor who can offer support. This resource is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Text LGBTQ to 741-741
Online Resources –
Pride Institute offers inclusive recovery programs for LGBTQ+ people. They offer both residential and outpatient treatment programs for substance use and addiction. This treatment provider also offers a family therapy program, a sexual health program, mental health referrals, and telehealth options.
The True Colors United focuses on ending homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. In addition to providing learning resources and advocacy, they also provide fundraising guides for those interested in raising money to support LGBTQ+ youth.
Pride Counseling offers online therapy to members of the LGBTQ+ communities. This service features counselors who not only specialize in helping people who are LGBTQ+, they also have experience with a range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, sleep problems, trauma, relationships, self-esteem, and interpersonal conflicts.
The LGBT National Youth Talkline, provided by the LGBT National Help Center, is aimed at teens and features trained peer counselors who can offer advice and information on topics such as sexual health, coming out, mental health, and other topics. They also feature a national resource database where you can search for youth groups, community centers, and other support resources in your area. 1-800-246-7743
To Educate –
Using Pronouns and Gender-Inclusive Language at Work | The Muse
Professional Tools | Round Tables (ala.org)
Know Your Rights | LGBTQ Rights (aclu.org)
MyPronouns.org Resources on Personal Pronouns
Creating a Trans-Inclusive Workplace (hbr.org)
Gender-affirming care leads to better mental health among trans people: study | TheHill