Racial Equity in Kentucky's Nonprofit Sector

1. Your Participation is Requested

Kentucky Nonprofit Network (KNN), the state association of nonprofits, and our partners on the Nonprofit Racial Equity Task Force (https://www.kynonprofits.org/advocate/racialequitytaskforce), are on a journey to help organizations build on the core strengths of diversity, equity, and inclusion--making space for greater client trust and engagement; larger employee, board and volunteer pools; better collaboration and decision-making; and stronger results.

To help us on this journey, we are launching a statewide survey to measure the current state. While the national discussion is moving toward diversity, equity and inclusion or DEI, we recognize that some are still tackling the basic concept of diversity. At the other end of the spectrum, we know others are diversity and inclusion champions, but the results of these efforts are not being captured, quantified and documented in meaningful ways that can be leveraged across the sector. This survey will help us do that.

The following are definitions of core concepts referenced in the survey that help create a shared language for talking about racial equity.

“Person of color” - The term "person of color" is primarily used to describe any person who is not considered White American. People of color include African Americans, Latino Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, and individuals who are multiracial. The term emphasizes common experiences of racial inequity which some communities have faced.

“Racial equity” – Racial equity is the consistent fair treatment of people of all races that results in fair and equitable opportunities and outcomes for everyone. All people are able to achieve their full potential in life, regardless of race, ethnicity, where they work, or the community in which they live.

“Diversity” – Diversity in the workplace focuses on respecting and appreciating what makes employees different in terms of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, education, and national origin, etc. Each employee in an organization also brings with them a different set of perspectives, thoughts, beliefs, backgrounds and ideas.

“Inclusion” – Inclusion is the action or state of including or of being included within a group or system. More than simply diversity and numerical representation, inclusion creates a sense of belonging and means freedom to be yourself and freedom to participate and contribute fully.

“DEI” – DEI is the abbreviation for diversity, equity and inclusion

“Supplier Diversity” – Supplier Diversity is a proactive business program which encourages the use of minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, other historically underutilized businesses, and Small Business Administration (SBA)-defined small business groups as suppliers.

KNN believes the majority of organizations, regardless of size or mission-focus, will relate to the data and stories that come from this work. The survey, administered and analyzed by a Decide Diversity expert consulting team, is one of several KNN initiatives designed to help nonprofits thrive. We urge each organization to share its own values, and be guided by them, in responding to the survey. The survey should be completed by the Executive Director or CEO and take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. If an organization has no paid staff leadership, we ask that the board chair or president complete the survey. All participants will remain anonymous and all responses are due by Monday, February 15. The results will be included in a summary report and used to provide organizations across Kentucky with action steps to engage in creating communities where everyone can thrive. If you need assistance, require additional information, or have questions please emailus@kynonprofits.org or admin@decidediversity.com.

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