Search NSGC
Find a GC
Find a Genetic
Counselor

POLICY

Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.)

J.E.D.I. Action Plan Dashboard

NSGC has created a dashboard that will be updated biannually to outline progress and action related to the J.E.D.I. Action Plan. It outlines progress in six operational impact areas:

  • Communication and Transparency
  • Annual Conference
  • Education and Training
  • Partnership and Outreach
  • Policy Changes
  • Organization-wide

View the J.E.D.I. Action Plan Dashboard 

Last updated: March 2024

J.E.D.I. Action Plan 

NSGC's J.E.D.I. Action Plan was approved by the NSGC Board of Directors in June 2022 and kickoff of the Action Plan commenced in August 2022.

View NSGC J.E.D.I. Action Plan

View the NSGC J.E.D.I. Action Plan Webinar

View the J.E.D.I Action Plan Webinar Q&A Document 

Frequently Asked Questions

Click here to view frequently asked questions about NSGC's J.E.D.I. initiative.

NSGC Policy on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB)

In furtherance of its vision and mission, the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) strives to integrate genetics and genomics to improve health for all. As an organization, NSGC (members and staff) works to realize this goal by promoting the active participation and leadership of people with diverse identities, perspectives, and backgrounds. Starting within NSGC and extending into the larger healthcare system, NSGC,  its members and staff seek to empower NSGC members to advocate for themselves, each other, and the diverse people they serve. NSGC and its members realize that a diverse and inclusive organization does not build itself but must be created through a sustained effort by leadership, staff, and each individual member.

In furtherance of these goals and NSGC’s ongoing commitment to create and maintain an inclusive environment within the organization and in connection with its activities, NSGC has adopted the following policy on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (“DEIB Policy”)

View Full DEIB Policy

What is Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion? 

Justice 

Justice is achieved when there is equity of opportunities, freedom of choice, and access to information needed for decision-making. Achieving this vision requires active work to break down barriers and address inequalities rooted in differentials of power and privilege. At NSGC, we believe that we have a responsibility to strive to reach justice both for our society members and colleagues, as well as for our genetic counseling clients and research participants. 

Equity

We believe that equity is ensuring that opportunities, and access to opportunities, are provided to all individuals to succeed - especially individuals that are underrepresented in our profession, and underserved in healthcare and society at large. At NSGC,  this applies to both clients and colleagues. Equity is different from equality, where all groups of people receive the same number and type of resources or support, regardless of needs or circumstances. 

Diversity

Diversity is understanding that each individual is unique and recognizing their personal differences, which may be visible or invisible. There are innumerable facets of diversity, including race, ethnicity, age, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, religion, and national origin, among others. Diversity is understanding that some differences provide privilege while others perpetuate disadvantages. At NSGC, we recognize the importance of all aspects of diversity, and we seek to create an environment and profession which is increasingly diverse and inclusive.

Inclusion 

Inclusion is the way we create environments in which an individual or group can feel accepted, respected, and valued. Inclusivity strives to create a sense of belonging for all individuals, regardless of different identities. At NSGC, true inclusion requires that we recognize and address our biases and actively work to decrease barriers within our profession and for the communities we serve. 

Login
Search