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As a volunteer organization serving children around the world through members in more than 70 countries, Kiwanis International has had a longstanding commitment to opportunity and dignity for all people. In June 2022, the Kiwanis International Board of Trustees adopted the latest expression of that principle: a detailed statement of our continuing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

At Kiwanis, our mission — to serve the children of the world, one child and one community at a time — is reflected in our continuing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We understand that the children of the world represent a variety of races, ethnicities, religions, abilities, socioeconomic statuses, gender identities and sexual orientations. Our vision is to be a positive influence in societies worldwide, so that one day, regardless of background, all children wake up in communities that believe in them, nurture them and provide the support they need to survive.

To ensure our vision comes to life, it is imperative that our Kiwanis family welcomes, includes and serves individuals with diverse backgrounds, talents and perspectives. With Kiwanis’ worldwide presence, it is critical that we work with and engage members and organizations representing diverse communities throughout all levels of our organization.

Diversity: We commit to increasing diversity and celebrating the range of human differences. Kiwanis clubs shall not discriminate based upon race, color, creed, national origin, age or sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity, when considering membership or during any of their activities or operations.

Equity: We commit to a policy of opportunity that promotes fairness, impartiality and nondiscriminatory actions for all persons — no matter the criteria. 

Inclusion: We commit to pursuing efforts to ensure the dignity of all people is recognized, respected, valued and empowered.

Questions or comments about diversity, equity and inclusion can be emailed to diversity@kiwanis.org.

Another milestone in the organization’s longstanding commitment came in 2008, when delegates at the Kiwanis International convention adopted a resolution that celebrates inclusiveness and encourages and empowers clubs to create environments that nurture mutual respect. The language reads:

Therefore, be it resolved that the delegates assembled at the 2008 Kiwanis International convention in Orlando, Florida, and all Kiwanis leaders and members to take action to create a culture and club environment that develops and nurtures mutual respect for all and celebrates the inclusiveness of our beloved Kiwanis.