EEO Statement

Reflecting Diversity

Reflecting diversity in college materials is an important aspect of projecting a welcoming image. It reflects the college’s mission of inclusiveness and supports the non-discrimination tag line that is required on all Extension publications and letterhead.

Incorporating diversity into publications can include a variety of racial/ethnic groups; people dressed in traditional attire; people with visible disabilities; people representing a variety of ages and both sexes. While diversity is not limited to this list, these items are among the most visible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: To be frank, my audience is not diverse.  Why should I show diversity in my materials?

A: Even though there may not be evident racial or ethnic diversity in an audience, this does not mean that materials cannot or should not reflect the diversity of Ohio or the United States. As we continue to reach out to new and non-traditional audiences, showing diversity will increase in importance. Including diversity of images in materials, publications, and websites is a way of increasing awareness of the wide variety of people and cultures in our nation.

Q: I realize that my organization is not very diverse. Are we pretending to be something that we’re not by showing a diverse range of people in our communications and materials?

A: On the contrary, by showing a wide range of people in our communications and materials we are affirming our commitment to diversity. People need to see themselves reflected, so showing a wide range of diversity sends the message that although we may not be where we would like to be, we recognize that diversity is an important element of quality programming.

Q: I only have room for one graphic; does it have to show diversity?

A: Depending upon the nature of the program, a graphic of an animal or a generic, modular stick-figure might be more appropriate. Use your judgment. There does not have to be a person in a wheel chair, an American Indian, or an African American represented on everything we do. However, a problem becomes apparent when a wide number of our exhibits, publications and other materials — especially those presented at a single event — show no diversity at all.

Q: I would like to show diversity but don’t have any resources to draw from. Where can I find them?

A: If you are using a Microsoft program, you can insert pictures. On the Insert menu, go down to "Picture." Choose "Clip Art." The Clip Gallery offers a wide array of choices for Clip Art, many of which show diversity. Or, once you are in the Clip Gallery, click on "Clips Online."  Anything that you check you can down load and will be saved on your hard drive. Another clip art site, Arttoday.com, can be accessed for a fee. See more at Art Today. Another website with free images of a variety of diverse individuals that you can use in your publications, fliers, etc.