AZA and Diversity

AZA recognizes and embraces the values of human diversity. We accept the moral and practical imperatives of our changing society, as well as the impacts of these changes on our personal and professional lives. We value and seek the strengths of human variety with respect to age, culture, gender, national origin, personal values and beliefs, physical abilities, race, religion and sexual orientation. In principle and in practice, AZA will commit time and resources to increasing diversity of our work force. To serve our member institutions, AZA will assemble and provide resources on diversity programs, trends and issues.

This statement applies to the Association's offices and its employees. It acknowledges that Association members may have their own statements or policies. It also acknowledges that a Diversity Special Committee has been established that will address diversity issues for the Association and its members.

Diversity Special Committee

AZA recognizes the value of human diversity in all endeavors. Under the leadership of President Terry Maple, AZA formed the Diversity Special Committee in 1999. The Diversity Committee was created to foster greater understanding of diversity issues among AZA members. The special committee works with AZA membership to create a clearer understanding of the true definition of diversity, to provide basic information about the benefits of diversity and to identify resources that will aid member institutions in developing positive approaches to human diversity issues.

For more information on diversity in AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, see the Resource Center Diversity page.

July 20, 1999