Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Dear Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County Community,

In light of the outpouring of grief and anger sweeping the country, and indeed the world, over the racist violence and senseless killing of Black men and women - including those in recent weeks: George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor - we wanted to reach out to our CCE-Nassau family to share our outrage. These tragedies and the ensuing unrest are glaring reminders of the progress that still must be made in our society.  But this painful time can be used as a turning point to a better future.  We can all do our part by listening, learning, and being committed to taking action to create a more equal and just society.

We hope you know that CCE-Nassau is an organization that champions equality, diversity, and inclusion and is willing to stand up for those values when they are threatened.  We firmly denounce racial violence and racism in all its forms. Cornell Cooperative Extension’s strong ties in diverse communities within Nassau County and beyond compel us to fully embody the principles of equity and inclusion in our programs, in our interactions with community members, and with each other.

To this end, we pledge to foster a culture of belonging where all are supported and welcome.  We also commit to develop a comprehensive plan to continue to further address issues of diversity, equity and inclusion within our Association and to work towards strengthening and widening our coalitions to help further develop and implement tangible solutions to bring about lasting change in Nassau County. Our efforts in doing so will lead us to a more just, healed, and thriving Nassau County for all.

Sincerely,

CCE- Nassau County

Please  click here to see the full statement from Chris Watkins, Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension and Associate Dean of College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and College of Human Ecology.

Last updated July 8, 2020