Introduction
The Coastal Society is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture with leadership that cultivates and respects different perspectives, abilities, and identities, and supports an engaged membership that reflects the populations we serve. We invite you to learn more about our efforts and get involved.
TCS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Working Group
Achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) requires an organization-wide commitment to dedicate time and resources to identify major gaps and take active steps to improve. The TCS DEI working group was established in June 2020 to advance this work, with the ultimate goal of DEI being fully integrated across the entirety of the organization’s operations. We welcome all members to join us! No experience necessary, just a desire to learn and a commitment to upholding and advancing the values of DEI. For more information and/or to become involved, contact Eva May, DEI Workgroup Co-Chair.
DEI Strategic Plan
Approved in December 2021, this plan is the guiding document for the TCS work to advance DEI in our organization. The plan identifies 5 key objectives and 25 strategies to obtain them. After collecting a baseline measurement of key metrics this year, the plan will be updated with specific targets to evaluate success going forward.
Demographic Survey
To establish a baseline understanding of our current strengths and areas for improvement, TCS surveyed its members in early 2024 for information about the demographics and diversity of our membership, as well as ideas and suggestions for how we can make TCS a more inclusive and equitable organization. All information collected is being kept confidential. A brief report and summary of the results of the survey will be available by mid-2024.
Anti Discrimination and Anti Harassment Policy
This policy applies to all TCS members, volunteers, and affiliated parties. All members should read it and become familiar with its terms.
Bystander Intervention Toolkit
Improving DEI strengthens our ability to achieve our mission and ensures all have an opportunity to benefit from The Coastal Society’s’ professional offerings. TCS is, ultimately, a professional organization; accordingly, TCS will hold its members and event participants to a standard of conduct expected of professionals. TCS can only be successful if its events, chapters, and overall organization are safe and welcoming to all. In instances of discrimination or harassment, TCS wants its members and event participants to be prepared and feel encouraged to step in. The purpose of the active bystander toolkit webpage is to provide bystanders the tools to actively intervene in and de-escalate the situation.
Additional Resources & Further Learning
World Economic Forum Diversity Equity & Inclusion Toolkit
The Essential Guide to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Society of Human Resource Managers Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Resources
How unintentional but insidious bias can be the most harmful
How microaggressions are like mosquito bites
9 Black Climate Voices to Follow
Strategies for Increasing Diversity in the Ocean Science Workforce Through Mentoring
Diversity in Ocean Science: The Experience of Black Women
Green 2.0 Leaking Talent Report
A Guide to Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
Lands Stolen from Indigenous Peoples in the USA
Do Your DE&I Efforts Consider Age, Class, and Lived Experience?