We recognize structural racism, ethnic discrimination and other forms of oppression have contributed to persistent disparities which United Way of Acadiana seeks to dismantle.

We understand that these disparities have existed in the past and persist into the present. They manifest in our community in low literacy rates, poor health outcomes, and financial insecurity that United Way of Acadiana seeks to address.

We acknowledge that these inequities are the result of policies and practices that work to marginalize entire populations of people.

We unequivocally denounce racism and ethnic discrimination because it undermines the well-being and vitality of our communities.

Our United Way of Acadiana network strives to engage community members, especially those whose voices have traditionally been marginalized. We strive to work with public and private partners to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has the resources, support, opportunities, and networks they need to thrive.

We work with residents and public and private partners to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has the resources, support, opportunities, and networks they need to thrive.

We commit to leveraging all of our assets (convening, strategic investments, awareness building, advocacy) to create more equitable communities.

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(Note: much of the language above is adopted from the United Way’s Equity Vision in United Way’s Equity Framework: Strengthening Our Equity Muscle to Accelerate Impact, developed in collaboration with local United Ways.)