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Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy
The National Stuttering Association acknowledges that Diversity, Equity and Inclusion practices and policies require continuous learning and reflection. Guided by the mission to support, empower, and advocate for all people who stutter, the NSA is committed to implementing sustainable and meaningful DEI initiatives. These efforts strengthen the NSA’s ability to carry out its mission and create avenues of support for individuals who stutter of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
We continue to develop recruiting strategies to ensure we attract, nurture and retain staff, volunteers and board members who reflect the diversity of our community. We are dedicated to reaching all individuals who stutter and providing resources—including print materials, webinars, and virtual meetings—free of charge.
Diversity
We are committed to increasing diversity at all levels including leadership, which is expressed in many forms, including race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, language, culture, immigration status, religious commitments, age, military service, able-bodiedness, language, and fluency.
Equity
We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all people who stutter, while actively addressing bias and discrimination. True equity means acknowledging, considering, and encouraging diverse perspectives, and empowering individuals to have agency and influence in decision-making processes.
Inclusion
We are committed to ensuring the stuttering community is a place where diverse perspectives and voices are welcomed and valued, and each individual feels support and belonging.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee
Founded in the summer of 2023, the DEI Committee is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, equitable environment for all people who stutter. Our committee not only represents an explicit commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity in the stuttering community, but exists as a representative and mouthpiece of people who stutter, specifically those of marginalized backgrounds. Our mission is to ensure that underrepresented voices are heard, valued, and empowered.
We welcome new ideas and encourage you to share your concerns. Please feel free to reach out to us at DEI@westutter.org. Remember, if you stutter, you are never alone!
Read the DEI Committee’s Objectives and Goals
Annual Conference
The annual conference offers a diverse slate of workshops discussing different levels of severity and forms of stuttering as well as intersectionality. We encourage you to submit your own application if there is a specific DEI-related topic you want to address—we offer assistance with the application process and finding a co-host if desired so feel free to email us if you are feeling overwhelmed!
The DEI committee offers our own workshop which focuses on a topic central to DEI initiatives in the NSA. We also offer an informal meet-and-greet to provide opportunities to connect!
Virtual Events
Throughout the year, the DEI committee offers virtual events and partners with other committees and affinity groups to push necessary conversations to the forefront and celebrate the diverse identities and experiences of people who stutter. This section is continually updated so check back!
Connect with DEI and similar initiatives
DEIintheNSA Instagram
Connect with DEI and similar initiatives
Importance of DEI in the NSA
Spanish Language Resources
As a fundamental component of our commitment to DEI, the NSA adheres to a comprehensive non-discrimination policy. We do not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, religious or spiritual affiliation or non-religious or spiritual affiliation, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, health, source of income, urban or rural geographic connection, familial class, immigration status, or status as a veteran in our employment practices, community engagements and activities.
The NSA has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination, ensuring that all members feel safe and respected at every NSA-sponsored or led event. We encourage you to contact the Board of Directors or the DEI Committee at dei@westutter.org with any concerns. For those who prefer to report anonymously, we are exploring confidential reporting options to release this year.