Value Statement on Inclusion. Social justice is inextricably tied to SGA’s values and mission. Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are disproportionately impacted by many of the issues that we address. We are committed to acknowledging and dismantling our systems that allow racism and other systems of oppression to persist and to working together to increase sustainability and resilience of all of our communities. The Sea Grant network is committed to expanding ongoing efforts to integrate education and awareness regarding social justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) into our meetings and our strategic planning, student opportunities, recruitment, and community engagement. We know these steps are not enough. And so, we commit to doing more. We commit to continue making JEDI-focused work central to our organization, to continue communicating about this work and its importance, and seek feedback on what we could do better.
Violence Against Asians, Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Communities. The rise of racist violence against Asians, Asian Americans and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities is deeply heartbreaking and horrifying. The Sea Grant Association (SGA) condemns words, actions and ideologies of all forms that perpetuate hatred, intimidation, threats, and violence. Fear, xenophobia and racism have infected the United States far longer than the COVID-19 outbreak. The recent spate of violence highlights the importance of Sea Grant’s ongoing work in promoting justice, equity, diversity and inclusion through our research, education and extension programs. Sea Grant is committed to building our collective resilience by unlearning racism, dismantling systemic barriers, and providing support during crisis. We stand in solidarity with our AAPI colleagues, partners and friends.