The following definitions are intended to provide common language to help communicate UMass Lowell's ideals.
These definitions are not intended to be an exhaustive list of every concept used in our conversations about diversity and social justice. As words and concepts change, UMass Lowell commits to evolving as well.

Diversity

We aspire to a fully diverse community.
Diversity is the significant acknowledgement and appreciation of differences that may include race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, socioeconomic status, language, (dis)ability, age religious commitment, political perspective, veteran status or other traits and lived experiences.

Equity

We aspire to reduce disparities and imbalances.
Equity is the cornerstone of promoting justice, impartiality and fairness within procedures, processes and the distribution of resources to ensure equal access to and active participation in educational programs and campus experiences.

Inclusion

We aspire to actively embrace differences.
Inclusion is an outcome of actions that ensure marginalized individuals feel valued, validated and welcomed, and are fully included in decision-making processes, professional development opportunities, learning in classes, research, programs and all university activities.

Belonging

We aspire to feel valued, seen and heard.
Belonging in the context of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is the profound sense of acceptance, value, respect and inclusion that individuals experience within a diverse and equitable environment.

Justice

We aspire to actively dismantle practices that disadvantage people from minoritized groups.
Justice guides our commitment to ensuring practices, policies, and decisions uphold the rights of marginalized groups. We actively work to eliminate barriers and forge equitable pathways for students, faculty, staff and others we serve.