Inside the organization
Learning and growing as individuals and as an organization.
Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Focus Group
In 2020, NSEA developed a Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Focus Group comprised of both staff and board members, with the goal of creating a space to learn and grow as individuals and as an organization. This group shares related resources (books, podcasts, videos, and more) which enhance our focused discussions, coordinated staff and board trainings, and recommended organizational changes to hiring and HR related policies and procedures.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Policy
In 2021, our board of directors approved a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy which reflects NSEA’s commitment to remove barriers and proactively pursue ways to achieve equity, increase diversity by improving access and opportunity, and provide an inclusive environment that is safe and open to everyone regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation/identity, gender identity, age, ethnicity, national origin, education, religion, disability/different abilities, and all other biases.
Non-discrimination
Notice of non-discrimination.
Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (NSEA) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, or sex in administration of its programs or activities, and NSEA does not intimidate or retaliate against any individual or group because they have exercised their rights to participate in actions protected, or oppose action prohibited, by 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, or for the purpose of interfering with such rights.
NSEA is an equal opportunity employer.
The full notice of non-discrimination explains how to file a complaint of discrimination.
In our programs
Land acknowledgements
NSEA begins programs, meetings, and gatherings with an acknowledgement of the land we are on, the colonization that is the reason we are on that land, and the Coast Salish People for whom that land is sacred and home to. We understand that acknowledgement is just one step in further truth telling and reconciliation and recognize the need for a call to action between our communities and shared lands.
In our programs
Gender-inclusive practices
NSEA staff have the option to share their personal pronouns on nametags and when introducing themselves at programs, meetings, and gatherings. NSEA programming is open to all youth and all community members, and we recognize people should feel safe and comfortable expressing themselves in our programs.
NSEA uses gender neutral pedagogy (teaching practices that avoid sorting or addressing students by gender) in programming, fosters a safe space and environment, and is inclusive of all people, their lived experiences, and comfort levels.
In our programs
Reducing barriers to program participation.
NSEA constantly strives to ensure equitable and accessible programming. We understand there is always room for increased accessibility, but we have taken multiple steps.
Students for Salmon
We work to reduce the cost barriers to our 4th grade Students for Salmon program, so that every Whatcom County school and 4th grade student has the chance to take part.
Work parties & Salmon Sighting events
Community work parties and Salmon Sighting events take place at locations throughout Whatcom County, giving opportunities for all people to see salmon and make a difference.
Camp Keystone
Camp Keystone is licensed and targets underserved families, providing an outdoor child care option to bridge the gap between school years.
While we are proud of these accomplishments, we recognize there are still many barriers and needs in our vibrant community, and we are committed to working with the community to identify and mitigate current and emerging needs.
Share your ideas
We welcome your suggestions.
If you have suggestions and advice on how we can provide an inclusive environment that is safe and open to everyone, please share them with us.
Or call our office at 360-715-0283.