Omicron Delta Kappa issued the statement below on June 2, 2020. Since that time, our Society has completed a survey to learn more about what resources related to social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusivity we may share with our circles and our membership. A number of other recommendations which came out of the survey data are presently under review and consideration for development in the 2020-21 academic year. We invite members to share more about their work in these areas at the form located here.
O∆K Statement Reaffirming Our Values and Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity
Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society, is saddened to witness the continued bigotry, racism, intolerance, and violence that have marked recent days and our country’s collective history. We join others in grieving for the loss of individual lives, as well for the loss of respect for human dignity and worth. The expressions of hatred and exclusion that individuals of color experience daily are antithetical to our values. Our circles, campuses, and communities have the capacity to make a positive difference in addressing social injustice, and we implore all to be leaders. We call upon our national and local leaders, as well as O∆K’s leaders, members, and circles, to uphold the O∆K Idea. We recommit ourselves to affirming and promoting openness and inclusiveness amongst all people. We expect our organization and members to adhere to our stated values:
- Scholarship – to strive for excellence in academics and pursue lifelong learning
- Service – to answer the call for action from one’s community or country
- Integrity – to align one’s values and beliefs with behaviors and speech
- Character – to distinguish oneself for the good of humanity
- Fellowship – to embrace those in the Society as equals, seeking inclusive bonds across diverse communities and generations
Matthew W. Clifford, Ed.D.
Chair, Board of Trustees
Willie L. Banks Jr., Ph.D.
Chair, Equity and Inclusivity Committee
Tara S. Singer, Ed.D.
President and Chief Executive Officer
