DEI Committee

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Jesse Lagos - DEI Committee Chair

Jesse Lagos

2024 DEI Committee Chair

Celebrating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Fresh Initiatives

As summer fades and we gear up for an exciting quarter, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the Gallatin Association of Realtors (GAR) is thrilled to share some wonderful updates and initiatives.

Firstly, in a significant stride towards inclusivity, our association is adopting a new name that better represents the diverse towns within our MLS region. This change might seem small, but it’s a big win for inclusivity, acknowledging everyone in areas beyond the Gallatin Valley. It's heartening to see our association embracing every community that contributes to our vibrant MLS, ensuring that no one feels left out.

Secondly, the DEI Committee is proud to sponsor the Mulligan balls at our association's upcoming Golf Tournament. Each golf ball is uniquely printed with one of three powerful words: Diversity, Equity, or Inclusion. This initiative is more than just a symbolic gesture; it’s a playful yet poignant reminder of our commitment to these crucial values. By integrating these principles into our event, we aim to foster awareness and demonstrate our ongoing support for all members, especially those from minority groups.

We are grateful for the opportunity to reinforce these ideals in fun and engaging ways, and we look forward to the continued growth and success of our association. Here’s to making every member feel valued and included!

Definitions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
Diversity includes all the ways in which people differ, encompassing the characteristics that make one individual or group different from another. Diversity brings together ideas from people of varying backgrounds and experiences in order to grasp a fuller, broader range of thoughts, feelings, and interactions among members of a community. Diversity means representation.
Equity is the fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. It is when everyone has access to the opportunities necessary to satisfy their essential needs, advance their well-being, and achieve their full potential. Equity does not mean everyone receives the same, but rather that everyone has the same access to shared resources. Equity means access.
Inclusion is the act of creating environments in which any individual or group can be and feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued to fully participate. An inclusive and welcoming climate embraces differences and offers respect in words and actions for all people. It means everyone can participate and everyone belongs. Inclusion recognizes our universal similarities and interdependence. despite our differences. Inclusion means belonging.