Our Commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

NSEA is dedicated to integrating principles of social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion to further NSEA’s mission and vision while seeking to remove barriers and provide an inclusive environment that is safe and open to everyone. We recognize the importance of learning and growth as we all strive to model behavior that enriches our organization and our community.  

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, etc.) which enhance our focused discussions, coordinated staff/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.

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. Click here to learn more about NSEA’s notice of non-discrimination, including where to file a complaint of discrimination

NSEA is an equal opportunity employer.

In NSEA’s 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.

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 in programming, fosters a safe space and environment, and is inclusive of all people, their lived experiences, and comfort levels.

Reducing Barriers to Program Participation
NSEA constantly strives to ensure equitable and accessible programming. We understand there is always room for increased accessibility, but have taken multiple steps.

NSEA’s 4th grade Students for Salmon program is offered at no cost to all Whatcom County schools, to ensure opportunity for all 4th grade students. 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 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 are committed to working with the community to identify and mitigate current and emerging needs. If you have suggestions and advice on how we can provide an inclusive environment that is safe and open to everyone, please share them via email to info@n-sea.org.