Freedom First joined our peers in the Credit Union Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (CU DEI) Collective, where members signed a pledge to commit to positive change towards diversity, equity, and inclusion in 2019.
The push for more inclusive and equitable practices, policies, and services is still underway with much progress to be made, but positive change is in motion at Freedom First. As a Community Development Financial Institution dedicated to empowering those historically shut out of traditional financial systems, a renewed focus on DEI is right in step with our mission of Helping People Prosper - Helping Communities Thrive and Financial Well-Being for All.
DEI Working Group
Freedom First established the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Working Group, a volunteer committee comprised of employees from diverse backgrounds, careers, and perspectives. The purpose of this group, which meets monthly, is to support the credit union's commitment to sustain a supportive, welcoming environment that is inclusive. The group accomplishes this by identifying opportunities to communicate, advocate, empower, and educate employees for the promotion of equity and inclusion.
In its first year of operation, the group developed a set of priorities that include assessing Freedom First's current state and recommending areas of improvement, promoting inclusive practices throughout all levels and departments, setting DE&I goals which can then be measured and shared with leadership and the broader community, and seeking committee members with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
You can follow our progress here as we reach new milestones and make headway towards our goals.