Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice & Accessibility (DEIJA) Resources

Thank you for visiting the Indiana Library Federation's DEIJA landing page. Here you will find ILF's DEIJA philosophy and a series of resources, trainings, and suggestions for creating spaces, environments, and cultures that prioritize DEIJA in Indiana libraries. DEIJA is one of the four key pillars of ILF's 2022-2025 strategic plan. 

Hover over the DEIJA webpage header above for more information. 

DEIJA Philosophy

The Indiana Library Federation seeks to provide a safe, inclusive space for members and celebrate our different viewpoints and backgrounds. To that end, ILF has created this glossary to define the terms under our umbrella of “DEIJA.” We are committed to providing a feeling of belonging for all. When speaking of diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and accessibility, we encompass broad definitions that include race, ethnicity, gender identity, biological sex, age, national origin, culture, background, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, marital status, parental status, language, weight, and physical appearance, as well as different ideas, perspectives, and values. We also recognize that these characteristics intersect in various ways for different people, and that intersectionality impacts that way that each person experiences the world.

Diversity includes all of the ways that people are alike and different, and encompasses different characteristics, visible and invisible, that make an individual or group different from one another. Recognizing, valuing, and embracing diversity allows us to recognize, value, and embrace the uniqueness of each person.

Equity recognizes diversity in an organization's systems. An equitable organization takes differences into account to ensure fair processes and sets up people to be successful, included, and empowered. An equity emphasis recognizes that some groups are traditionally marginalized or underrepresented, and considers those structural factors that benefit some while harming others.

Inclusion is an environment in which all individuals are treated fairly; respected and valued for their contributions; have equal access to resources and opportunities; and can contribute fully to the organization. Inclusion brings traditionally marginalized or underrepresented individuals and groups into the organization and invites them to share power.

Justice focuses on the systemic fair treatment of people and the power dynamics among different groups. Racial justice goes beyond simply the elimination of discrimination; rather, a racial justice lens proactively creates systems that achieve and sustain racial equity. Social justice more broadly promotes an equitable society where all members are safe, recognized, and respected, empowering them to participate fully in the community.

Accessibility promotes a sense of belonging, ownership, and power for all people along the continuum of human ability and experience. An accessible organization welcomes all members and provides equitable experiences with equivalent ease of use, beyond simple compliance. Members’ needs are not seen as a burden but a way to ensure that there is space for everybody.

Definitions adapted from the American Library Association Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services; work by Dr. Khalilah A. Shabazz; and the Indiana Library Federation’s DEIJA Committee.