Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Village Movement California’s Commitment to Expand the Circle of Belonging

We believe our movement is stronger when we include multiple generations and diverse communities in an inclusive, rich exchange of ideas. Aging is happening to every one of us, no matter what our generation, life circumstances or background.

We just wrapped up our inaugural Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training Institute with eighteen leaders of nine villages and are proud to share this workshop series focused on peer-to-peer learning about the work of three villages to expand their communities of belonging.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Workshop Series

Our state’s over-60 population is projected to diversify and grow faster than any other age group, with people of color making up 47% of the population. The growth of our movement – to engage new audiences of potential village members and volunteers – requires that we expand our communities to reflect California’s vibrant populations of older adults.  

February 22, 2023	Pasadena Village Recording
March 22, 2023	San Francisco Village Recording
April 26, 2023	Ashby Village Recording

Our Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity Team

Our organization’s team is working to develop a policy and plan to fulfill Village Movement California’s vision and values.

“Diversity” includes a complex and intersecting range of identities: race; ethnicity; nationality; sexual orientation; gender identity; income; education; family constellation; physical ability; strengths and preferences; and more, that create differences among people. Village Movement California aspires to meet the needs of all older adults.

“Inclusion” means that all people are respected and appreciated as valuable and integral members of their community. Village Movement California builds a culture of inclusion.

“Equity” means that all people have what they need to live their healthiest, most fulfilling and happy lives. Village Movement California advocates for an equitable society where older adults are able to age well and safely, with the supports and connections they need.

Racial Justice and Equity

Our country’s history of structural racism has created vast disparities in health and wealth between White and non-White people. These disparities are striking among older adults. Latinos/Hispanics and African American older adults are more likely to experience poverty than White older adults. In California, the rate of death from COVID-19 among older adults and people of color is significantly greater than Whites.

Working towards racial justice and equity is required for Village Movement California to fulfill its vision. At a time of unrest and uprising, Village Movement California believes that older adults are an important constituency in the quest for racial justice. Village Movement California stands with those who are fighting for change. Read a letter from our Executive Director.

Unlearning Racism

Racism is learned, and it can be unlearned. One of the most important things we can do now is to gain the awareness and empathy needed to make change in our society, and in our village movement. Please make suggestions for additional resources by contacting us.