PULSE is committed to acknowledging, advocating, celebrating, and educating all people who serve, live, and grow in PULSE. We are professionally and personally committed to creating a community that supports diverse perspectives, celebrates the rich diversity of people who live and serve within our community, and fosters an environment of continuous learning.
We have created this Diversity Statement so that all Fellows, staff, nonprofit partners, neighbors, and any other individual or organization, may understand the importance of diversity in PULSE, in our houses, in our nonprofit partnerships, in our neighborhoods, in the city of Pittsburgh, and in the world. We will not tolerate any form of behavior pertaining to racism, sexism, bigotry, harassment, intimidation, threats, or abuse, whether verbal or written, physical or psychological, direct or implied. We will not accept ignorance, humor, or substance use as an excuse for oppressive behavior.
Acknowledge
We acknowledge that human differences comes in many forms, including: race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ability, or status as a veteran. We recognize that the knowledge we gain from interacting with and learning from one another has both educational and personal value. Furthermore, by acknowledging the presence of inequalities and oppression and engaging in uncomfortable conversations, all members of our community experience an incomparable experience. These experiences are crucial for developing the requisite skills to thrive as a member of a pluralistic society and as a responsible global citizen.
Advocate
We strive to create an environment that allows all people to advocate for and support underrepresented populations. We maintain a safe and friendly environment that embodies our ideals of cooperation and mutual respect by protecting the right of respectful expression and by confronting hateful or victimizing acts. We will be deliberate in educating our staff and Fellows to respond proactively to such behavior.
Celebrate
We consider the cultural diversity at PULSE and in Pittsburgh as one of our finest assets. We endeavor to celebrate all people by offering programs and activities that promote a high level of experiential learning. Encouraging Fellows to embrace diversity is at the heart of our mission to provide a holistic education and to help our Fellows become effective citizen leaders in our communities and in the world.
Educate
We provide opportunities for holistic education, in part, by prioritizing Fellows living in community. Through Fellows living in community, Fellows will learn the skills necessary to promote a supportive and inclusive environment. Fellows will have the opportunity to engage in programs, activities, and discussions regarding current events, as well as social, political, intrapersonal, and interpersonal conflicts through the PULSE program and in their houses. Within PULSE, living in community is embedded in our commitment to create the best experience for Fellows and to prepare them as they engage in the world.
