In line with our DEI statement, the following guidelines reflect MMSHRM's commitment to embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into every aspect of our chapter's work.

We ask that all members and guests familiarize themselves with these expectations and champion them as part of our shared responsibility to MMSHRM and the greater Milwaukee region.

Fostering an Inclusive, Welcoming Community

All members and guests are vital to creating a culture of inclusion, belonging, and mutual respect. Please keep the following in mind as you engage with others:

Inclusive Communication

• ●      Proactively introduce yourself

• ●      Use optional pronoun stickers on your name tag

• ●      Use inclusive language such as gender-neutral terms like "everyone" or "participants," and always respect preferred names and pronouns.

• ●      Be open to different lived experiences, perspectives, and ways of communicating.

• ●      Listen to understand. Give others the space to share fully. Focus on others' full perspectives and lived experiences before responding.
• ●      Refrain from interrupting or speaking over others.

• ●      Use inclusive, non-judgmental language in discussions
• ●      Approach every conversation with curiosity; avoid making assumptions about someone’s background or identity.

Welcoming Participation

• ●      Keep our community open and welcoming by reaching out beyond your usual circle to include newcomers.

• ●      Practice proactive inclusion by intentionally looking for those standing alone or new to the group and inviting them into your conversation.
• ●      Invite quieter voices into the conversation without pressuring them.

• ●      Respect different comfort levels with sharing personal or professional information.

Accountability and Growth

• ●      Engage in continuous learning around diversity, equity, and inclusion. Stay curious when approaching unfamiliar concepts or differing viewpoints, maintaining an open mind.
• ●      Prioritize accessibility by always using the provided microphone for questions so that all attendees, including those joining virtually, can hear you clearly.
• ●      Share the mic by remaining mindful of your "airtime" in discussions and Q&A to ensure diverse voices have the opportunity to contribute.
• ●      Own the impact if you unintentionally cause harm by acknowledging it, learning from the moment, and moving forward with respect.
• ●      Help us grow by providing honest feedback in our post-event survey regarding your personal sense of inclusion and belonging.

• ●      Speak up if you witness behavior that contradicts our values—kindly and constructively. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking directly to the behavior, contact a MMSHRM Executive Committee Member, DEI Board Director, or email us at office@mmshrm.org.

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DEI Committee’s Purpose:

The DEI committee develops, recommends and implements the chapter’s DEI strategy, including programming, communication, advocacy and related initiatives. The committee is a resource to the larger community, building bridges that supports MMSHRM’s strategy.