Principles of Community

EDI’s Principles of Community (Core Values)

Gallaudet University is a bilingual, diverse, and multicultural community. We come from a multiplicity of backgrounds and experiences, which shape our identities, perspectives, and life journeys. We recognize that to create an affirming and intellectually vibrant community that supports everyone’s well-being and success, we must understand and value both our individual differences and common ground. These Principles of Community animate this commitment and ground division’s strategic plan.

We recognize that each of us has an obligation to the Gallaudet University and Clerc Center community of which we have chosen to be a part. We will strive to build and maintain a culture and climate based on these principles of community when engaging with one another and acting on behalf of Gallaudet University.

Respect

We honor and affirm the dignity inherent in all of us and in all people, and we strive to maintain a climate of equity and justice demonstrated by respect for one another. We are committed to the freedom of expression, critical discourse, and the advancement of knowledge. We strive to overcome historical and divisive biases in our community and society.

Integrity

We are accountable for our actions. We will act ethically, honestly, and with trust in all our interactions.

Living, Well-Being & Belonging

We welcome, value, and affirm all members of our community, including their various identities, skills, ideas, talents and contributions. We create and nurture environments that support the living, well-being and belonging of all community members.

Compassionate Collaboration

We genuinely broaden our understanding of others’ experiences and life journeys, and build rapport grounded in mutual trust and respect. We co-create positive environments necessary for our integrated work to flourish and support the mission and vision of Gallaudet University and the Clerc Center.

Social Justice

We have the right to be treated and the responsibility to treat others with fairness, equity and civility, the duty to challenge prejudice and discrimination, and to uphold the laws, policies and procedures that promote justice in all respects.

Service

We are responsible, individually and collectively, to give of our time, talents, and resources to promote the well-being of each other and the development of our local, regional, and global Deaf communities and broader society.