Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the JCC Indianapolis
The JCC Indianapolis, guided by Jewish values and traditions, believes in fairness, recognizes the value of inclusiveness, and encourages participation by all people to fulfill its mission to provide inclusive experiences that lead to personal growth and community building. The JCC celebrates a diverse society of cultures, beliefs, and perspectives whose knowledge strengthens us as an organization and a people.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At the Arthur M. Glick JCC Indianapolis, we firmly believe in the power of diversity and the values of equity and inclusion. We celebrate the richness of a diverse society, where various cultures, beliefs, and perspectives converge to strengthen us as an organization and a community. We are dedicated to ensuring that our services and programs reflect this diversity, welcoming everyone to be part of our inclusive community.
Inclusivity has been in the fabric of our center for decades. Jewish history and theology teach that we are to reach out to those on the margins and thereby enlarge and enrich our community. The American Jewish Committee stated in 2020,
The recent explosion of resentment around the world against racist behavior must galvanize the Jewish community to be even more in the forefront of the struggle against racism. This is our duty to our own historical experience of bigotry and racism; to our own heritage; and above all to the Lord of Creation Himself who created every human person in the Divine image with inalienable dignity.
We understand that every human being is created in the Divine image, deserving of inherent dignity, and we honor this truth through our actions. Therefore, the Arthur M. Glick JCC is opposed to discrimination of any kind on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, abilities and disabilities, age, culture, or any other characteristic protected by law. We welcome all communities who share our values and support equality efforts for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) community, differently-abled people, and other marginalized groups as members of our JCC family.
Our Values
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Commitment (M’sirut): We strive to provide the very best programming and services, ensuring an exceptional experience for everyone.
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Community (Kehilla): Our dedication to enriching both our neighborhood and the wider Jewish community drives us to make a positive impact on society.
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Connections (K’sharim): We cherish our Jewish values and ties to Israel, fostering meaningful connections that unite us as a people.
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Integrity (Yo’sher): Building trust through excellence and ethical behavior is at the core of everything we do.
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Welcoming (Kabalat Panim): We believe in engaging all members and guests with warmth and respect, creating an inclusive and inviting atmosphere.
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Wellness (Briyut): We promote wellness in mind, body, and spirit, offering healthy choices for personal growth and development.
The essential values of our JCC are harmonious with the goals of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts at our organization:
Our Efforts
In September 2021, staff and board members created a JCC Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee known as JEDI. JEDI is comprised of staff, board members, and JCC members who are invested in furthering DEI practices within our organization.
Over the last two years, our committee has diversified our board of directors, engaged staff in DEI professional development, and have held several programs for the community motivated by social justice and the values of DEI.
These efforts are ongoing and we value feedback and suggestions from the community. We invite you to join us in advocating for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Your support and participation are crucial in fulfilling our mission and making a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families.
For more information or to get involved in our DEI efforts, please email jedi@JCCindy.org. Together, let’s build a better future founded on the principles of equality, respect, and unity.