Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

York County Community College recognizes the vital work of honoring diversity, combating discrimination, acknowledging prejudice, and fostering an environment of inclusiveness.

We see this work as central to the mission of education, and crucial to the maintenance of a free, ethical, and healthy society. In that spirit, we offer the following commitments:

1. To recognize the diversity that exists within the YCCC community, and to honor our responsibility to offer educational opportunities to all.
2. To be mindful of ongoing injustices relating to issues of identity, including but not limited to matters of race, ethnicity, nationality, culture, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, veteran status, socioeconomic background, and diversity of thought.
3. To recognize that higher education has frequently reinforced patterns of exclusion and discrimination, and to enact policies and practices that combat those patterns.
4. To make the study of historical and contemporary injustices integral to our curricula; to encourage discussion of social issues, including the above-referenced matters of identity; and to foster classroom environments that allow for those conversations to take place openly, honestly, and safely.
5. To recognize challenges that are particular to the state of Maine, including the building of racial and ethnic diversity; to acknowledge the complex history of interaction between Maine’s indigenous and nonindigenous peoples; and to be mindful of YCCC’s own location on land that was once tribal land of the Apikwahki/Pequawket people.
6. To make inclusion, diversity, and equity ongoing topics of study and discussion among employees, and to offer professional development opportunities that deepen our understanding of these issues.
7. To encourage our community members to be socially informed, and to embrace civic responsibility on our campus by supporting voting; by providing opportunities for learning and engagement through speakers, shared readings, webinars, and other resources; and by remaining receptive to new and unfamiliar viewpoints.
8. To promote a college community that is safe, civil, and welcoming of all members.