Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)

DEIB Mission Statement

YOU are welcome, valued, and celebrated at United Catholic Youth Ministries (UCYM) because YOU are the Body of Christ! The foundation of the mission, ministry, and administration of UCYM is to thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with intention build a culture where diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are respected, intentionally valued, and practiced by creating bold, innovative, and pastoral strategies that can serve as a model for formation, outreach, ministry, and administrative structures and practices for all those served and who serve through UCYM.

DEIB Vision

Diversity is a FACT.
Equity is a CHOICE.
Inclusion is an ACTION.
Belonging is an OUTCOME.

– Arthur Chan

DEIB Engagement Opportunities

Land Acknowledgment

We acknowledge and honor the Potawatomi and Kickapoo Tribes as well as the Peoria, Myaami, Kaskaskia, and Očhéthi Šakówiŋ nations, the original people of the land upon which United Catholic Youth Ministries stands.

Why We Use Pronouns

At UCYM, we believe that every identity holds value and we are committed to maintaining a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all where we celebrate the dignity of each human person. We have chosen to include the pronouns of every member of our staff and board leadership under their picture as we believe it is a necessary step to ensure that every identity in our community is recognized to ensure people feel they are welcome and belong.

UCYM is committed to empowering and accompanying a new generation of faithful missionary disciples and want to affirm our young people's desire to be inclusive and thoughtful as church.

If some of these terms are new to you or you are looking for resources, please don't hesitate to reach out to our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Team at [email protected].